Tretinoin (By mouth)
Tretinoin (TRET-i-noin)
Treats leukemia.
Brand Name(s):
There may be other brand names for this medicine.When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to tretinoin or similar medicines.How to Use This Medicine:
Liquid Filled Capsule
- Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
- Take this medicine with food. Swallow the capsule whole with water. Do not chew, dissolve, or open it.
- Missed dose: If you miss a dose and it is more than 10 hours until your next scheduled dose, take it as soon as possible, and then go back to your regular schedule. If you miss a dose and it is less than 10 hours until your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
- If you vomit after taking a dose, take the next dose at the regular time.
- Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Some medicines can affect how tretinoin works. Tell your doctor if you are using aminocaproic acid, aprotinin, ketoconazole, tranexamic acid, tetracyclines, or vitamin A supplements.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
- This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. If you can get pregnant, you must have a negative pregnancy test 1 week before starting this medicine. Use 2 forms of effective birth control during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose. Male patients with female partners should use an effective form of birth control during treatment and for at least 1 week after the last dose.
- Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 1 week after the last dose.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, increased pressure in the head, high blood cholesterol, or blood clots.
- This medicine may cause the following problems:
- Differentiation syndrome
- Increased white blood cell count
- Increased pressure in the head, especially in children
- Increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) in the blood
- Liver problems
- Blood clots, including stroke or heart attack
- This medicine may cause some people to become dizzy or have severe headache. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous.
- Some male patients who use this medicine have become infertile (unable to have children). Talk to your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children.
- Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
- Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
- Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
- Bone pain
- Change in how much or how often you urinate
- Chest pain that may spread, unusual sweating, faintness
- Coughing up blood, trouble breathing
- Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
- Fever, chills, cough, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, body aches
- Numbness or weakness in your arm or leg, or in one side of your body, pain in your lower leg
- Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
- Sudden and severe stomach pain, lightheadedness
- Sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech, or walking
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Constipation, diarrhea, stomach upset
- Earache or changes in hearing
- Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet
- Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088
Last Updated: 2/4/2025