Details

---

Tretinoin 10 mg capsules is an anti cancer drug mailny used in the treatment of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia(APL).

It is an acid derivative of vitamin A(retinoid) and also known as all trans retinoic acid(ATRA).

It reduces the  acute complications of APL like bleeding and hemorrhage.

Mechanism of action: Leukemic cells are sensitive to all trans retinoic acid and ATRA induces  maturation and growth of abnormal promyelocytes typically found in APL. When combined with other chemotherapeutic agents, efficacy of both drugs is highly increased.

It is available as VESANOID, both in the Indian and international market.

 

Uses

• Tretinoin 10 mg capsules are used in the first line treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia(a variant of acute myelocytic leukemia) because of its action on leukemic cells of bone marrow.
• When it is used in combination with anthracycline chemotherapy, usually idarubicin, the curing rate is increased upto 80%.
• In relapsed patients VESANOID is prescribed along with arsenic trioxide (ATO) which increases the efficacy of
• VESANOID is also used as a maintenance drug to delay the relapse of APL and increases the chances of remission.

 

Dosage

• Tretinoin 10 mg capsules are taken orally twice a day.
• Consulting doctor will determine the final dose according to the height, weight, age and medical condition of the patient.
• Always consult a doctor before starting tretinoin, self medication is not recommended.

 

Side effects

• Dry eyes and dry mouth
• High Cholesterol and triglyceride levels
• Liver toxicity
• Headache
• Hearing loss
• chest discomfort
• Peripheral edema
• Chest discomfort
• abdominal pain
• Stomach upset
• Dizziness, weakness
• Differentiation syndrome aka retinoic acid syndrome
• Kidney disease, dark urine
• Mental confusion, depression, mood changes

 

Warning

• Tretinoin 10 mg capsules cause acute life threatening respiratory distress with hypotension and leukocytosis known as Differentiation syndrome or retinoic acid syndrome. It usually occurs within the 1st week of administration. So the patient must be monitored carefully.
• It is contraindicated in pregnancy so always tell the doctor about pregnancy or future plans of pregnancy as It causes serious birth defects and harm to foetus.
• Tell the doctor about ongoing medications before starting the treatment and any allergy to retinoic acid.

 

Reviews

VESANOID is a very effective in the treatment of  Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia along with other anticancer durgs.it delays the recurrence of leukemia and increases the recovery rate. but after starting it, careful monitoring is required. regular blood tests and check ups are required to avoid any acute complication.