TLDR Retinoids are effective for various skin conditions and hair loss but have serious side effects, so low doses are recommended.
The 2012 document discussed the off-label uses of retinoids, specifically isotretinoin and acitretin, in dermatology. Retinoids were found effective in treating various skin disorders, including severe acne, psoriasis, and keratinization disorders. They also showed promise in treating certain cancers and precancerous conditions. The document highlighted the use of retinoids in treating hair loss conditions, with a combination of 5% minoxidil and 0.01% tretinoin proving effective for male pattern hair loss. However, retinoids also had significant adverse effects, including teratogenic potential and hyperlipidemia. It was recommended that patients be maintained on the lowest effective retinoids dose to minimize these side effects. The document also emphasized the need for further research to standardize the dosage and treatment duration.
41 citations,
June 2010 in “Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Isotretinoin is safe and effective for acne, with common side effects like dry lips; serious side effects are rare.
43 citations,
January 2007 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Combined minoxidil and tretinoin solution works as well as regular minoxidil for male hair loss.
75 citations,
August 2005 in “Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy” Acitretin is effective for certain types of psoriasis, safe for long-term use, and often combined with other treatments.
92 citations,
June 2005 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” All-trans retinoic acid causes hair loss by increasing TGF-β2 in hair follicle cells.
52 citations,
February 2003 in “Archives of dermatology” 9-cis-retinoic acid showed some effectiveness in treating AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma but had significant side effects at higher doses.
73 citations,
October 1986 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Tretinoin may help hair growth and works better when combined with minoxidil.
126 citations,
October 1983 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Isotretinoin effectively treats severe acne and similar conditions, but has common, mostly reversible side effects, requiring careful patient monitoring.
108 citations,
November 1980 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Oral retinoids are effective for various skin conditions but have side effects and should not be used during pregnancy.
92 citations,
June 2005 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” All-trans retinoic acid causes hair loss by increasing TGF-β2 in hair follicle cells.
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.
January 2019 in “ARC journal of pharmaceutical sciences” Acne can be managed with various treatments and requires psychological support due to its emotional impact.
January 2016 in “Springer eBooks” Understanding drug interactions, side effects, and patient-specific factors is crucial for effective dermatological care.
18 citations,
June 2019 in “Clinical research in dermatology” Acne can't be cured but can be managed with treatments like benzoyl peroxide and diet changes; it's costly and can lead to scarring and mental health issues.
