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Altreno
Used for Acne
Used for Acne
Altreno (tretinoin) is a prescription topical retinoid used to treat acne in adults and children 9 years and older. It comes as a lotion that's applied in a thin layer to the affected skin once a day. Common side effects include dryness, burning or stinging, redness, irritation, and peeling where you apply it.
What is Altreno (tretinoin)?
What is Altreno (tretinoin) used for?
How Altreno (tretinoin) works
When does Altreno (tretinoin) start working?Time passed since treatment started:
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Altreno |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Retinoid |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
More on Altreno (tretinoin) essentials
Side effects of Altreno (tretinoin)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Dry skin at application site (4%)
- Pain at application site (3%)
- Redness at application site (2%)
Less Common Side Effects
- Irritation at application site
- Peeling at application site
Altreno (tretinoin) serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Severe allergic reaction: hives, severe itching, swelling, trouble breathing
More on Altreno (tretinoin) side effects
The following Altreno (tretinoin) side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Change in skin color
- Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
Pros and cons of Altreno (tretinoin)
Pros
- Only applied once daily
- Lotion formulation designed to reduce skin irritation
- Approved for adults and children ages 9 years and older
Cons
- Acne can take several weeks to improve
- Can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight
- Might not be the best option for people with fish allergies
Pharmacist tips for Altreno (tretinoin)
- Use Altreno (tretinoin) once a day, even if your acne doesn't improve right away. Acne treatments take time to work, so use it regularly for the best results.
- Altreno (tretinoin) can cause dryness, redness, burning, or peeling. A moisturizer can help soothe your skin, but contact your prescriber if irritation is severe or doesn't improve.
- Altreno (tretinoin) can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when you're outside.
- You can wear makeup with Altreno (tretinoin). Just make sure to apply the medication first and let it dry before putting makeup on.
- Pregnancy: Altreno (tretinoin) generally isn't recommended during pregnancy. Talk to a healthcare professional about the risks and benefits if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- Breastfeeding: Only a small amount of Altreno (tretinoin) is expected to enter your body through your skin, so it's considered low risk while breastfeeding. Talk to your prescriber before using it while breastfeeding.
How to use Altreno (tretinoin)
- Before you apply the medication, gently wash your skin and pat it dry.
- Altreno (tretinoin) comes in a tube and pump. Squeeze or pump the lotion onto your fingertip.
- Apply a thin layer over the affected area(s) of your skin, spreading the lotion evenly.
- Wash your hands after applying the lotion, unless your hands are the area being treated. This helps prevent accidentally getting the medication in your eyes or other sensitive areas.
- Don't apply the lotion to broken, sunburned, or eczema-affected skin. These areas can become more irritated.
Risks and warnings for Altreno (tretinoin)
Altreno (tretinoin) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Skin irritation
- Risk factors: Sunburned or irritated skin | Eczema
Altreno (tretinoin) can cause dryness, redness, pain, peeling, or irritation where you apply it. Using a moisturizer can help with mild irritation. If your symptoms are severe or don't improve, your prescriber might recommend using the medication less often or stopping it.
Avoid applying Altreno (tretinoin) to sunburned skin or areas affected by eczema because this can make irritation worse.
Sun sensitivity
- Risk factors: Spending a lot of time in the sun | Having skin that's sensitive to sunlight | Using sunlamps or tanning beds
Altreno (tretinoin) can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Limit time in the sun and avoid sunlamps and tanning beds during treatment. When you're outside, use sunscreen and wear protective clothing over treated skin.
Use with caution in people with fish allergies
- Risk factors: Allergy to fish or fish-containing products
Altreno (tretinoin) contains fish proteins, which might cause an allergic reaction if you have a fish allergy. Tell your care team about any fish allergies before starting treatment. Contact them if you develop itching or hives after using the medication.
Altreno (tretinoin) dosage
The average cost for 1 tube of 45g of 0.05% of Altreno (tretinoin) is $116.65 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 10.18% off the average retail price of $129.87.
How much does Altreno (tretinoin) cost?
To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
Altreno (brand)
$54.25
What are alternatives to Altreno (tretinoin)?
There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Altreno (tretinoin). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
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