People's Pharmacy

Retin-a

Generic Name:tretinoin

Revised:4/1/2000

Table of Contents

Overview

This acne medication is available in cream, gel and liquid formulations in various strengths.

It is very effective in cases of mild or moderate acne, and that is the only condition for which the FDA has approved its use.

However, doctors also prescribe Retin-A to smooth the fine wrinkling and discoloration of skin that has been damaged by years of sun exposure, and it is under study for use in treating precancerous skin lesions.

It has been used experimentally to treat several kinds of skin cancer as well as certain forms of psoriasis and other rare skin conditions.