TLDR Acitretin treats severe skin conditions but requires careful monitoring due to serious side effects.
Acitretin, an aromatic retinoid, was primarily used for treating pustular psoriasis and psoriatic palmo-plantar keratoderma, with combination therapies needed for other psoriasis forms. It was also effective for keratinization disorders and severe lichen planus. The drug had a terminal elimination half-life of 55-60 hours, but alcohol intake could extend this to 84-168 days due to conversion to etretinate. Acitretin was a potent teratogen, necessitating contraception during and 2 years post-therapy. Side effects included mucocutaneous issues (e.g., hair loss), elevated transaminases in 5-8% of patients, hyperlipidemia, and rare acute hepatotoxic reactions. Bony changes were reported, and growth monitoring was essential in children. Combining acitretin with hepatotoxic drugs or cyclines was contraindicated.
6 citations,
September 2012 in “Our Dermatology Online” Retinoids are effective for various skin conditions and hair loss but have serious side effects, so low doses are recommended.
6 citations,
December 1987 in “Mayo Clinic proceedings” Retinoids are effective for severe acne and psoriasis but can cause serious side effects and birth defects.
136 citations,
April 2010 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Acitretin is effective for severe skin conditions but has significant side effects and requires careful monitoring.
January 1993 in “Side effects of drugs annual” Natural products like propolis are causing more skin allergies, and certain skin treatments and medications have various side effects and risks.
January 2017 in “Clinical approaches and procedures in cosmetic dermatology” Retinoids are effective for skin conditions like severe acne and psoriasis but must be used with caution due to potential side effects and risks during pregnancy.
23 citations,
April 2018 in “Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft” Permanent hair loss from cicatricial alopecia is treated by reducing inflammation and managing symptoms, but regrowth in scarred areas is unlikely.
