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Retigel (Gel)

Manufactured by: Unimed & Unihealth Manufacturers Ltd.

Isotretinoin 0.05% Topical Similar medicine

Retigel is indicated for

  • Acne

Precautions and warnings

If you already have high triglycerides or are at risk (such as those with diabetes, obesity, or heavy alcohol use), you should have your triglyceride levels checked regularly. Blood lipids and liver function tests should be monitored every week or two. People with diabetes or suspected diabetes should also have their blood sugar checked.

If you have a family history of osteoporosis as you get older, had bone problems as a child, or have eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, you should let your doctor know. If you have a history of mental health issues, tell your doctor as well.

This medication may make it harder to see at night. Do not get wax epilation or skin resurfacing procedures for at least 6 months while using this medicine. Stay out of the sun and avoid UV light for long periods.

Stop taking the medication and contact your doctor if you have hearing problems, stomach pain, rectal bleeding, severe diarrhea, or serious eye problems.

Do not donate blood while taking this medicine and for at least one month after stopping it.

Side-effects

  • Dryness of mucous membranes
  • dryness of skin with scaling
  • fragility
  • erythema
  • cheilitis
  • pruritus
  • epistaxis
  • conjunctivitis
  • dry sore mouth
  • palmo-plantar exfoliation. Corneal opacities
  • dry eyes
  • visual disturbances
  • skeletal hyperostosis
  • musculoskeletal symptoms. Elevation of serum triglycerides
  • LFTs
  • ESR
  • blood glucose. Hair thinning
  • photosensitivity
  • changes in skin pigmentation
  • paronychia. GI disturbances
  • hepatitis. Headache
  • drowsiness
  • sweating
  • mood changes
  • psychotic symptoms
  • depression
  • suicidal tendencies
  • benign intracranial hypertension
  • seizures. Vasculitis
  • hypersensitivity reactions
  • IBS. Potentially Fatal: Anaphylaxis. Haemorrhagic pancreatitis.

Drug Interactions

Taking this medicine with vitamin A or similar drugs can increase the risk of side effects. It may also make low-dose progesterone birth control less effective, so use a second form of contraception. This medicine can increase the risk of bone loss if you take it with phenytoin or corticosteroids. It can also lower blood levels of carbamazepine.
Serious Risk: Taking this medicine with tetracyclines can raise the risk of a dangerous condition called pseudotumor cerebri.

Mode of actions

Isotretinoin is a man-made form of vitamin A. It works by shrinking the oil glands in the skin and reducing the amount of oil they produce. It also helps control how skin cells grow and develop.

Dosage & Administration

Adult: As 0.05% gel: Apply sparingly once or twice daily. Effect may not be evident for 6-8 wk.

Pregnancy & Lactation

This medicine must not be used during pregnancy. It can be absorbed through the skin and lungs caused can damage your unborn child’s organs and cause congenital disabilities. Strict two effective types of birth control starting one month before and during treatment and for three years after stopping this medicine. Discuss with your doctors if you are not sure which types of birth control are effective for you. You must need to take pregnancy tests regularly during your treatment with this medicine and for at least three years after taking this medicine. If it seems that you do become pregnant stop taking this medicine and call your doctor immediately. If you really become pregnant, miss a menstrual period, or have sex without using two forms of birth control. In some cases, your doctor can prescribe emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy. People on this medicine should not donate blood during the treatment and for three years afterward.

This medicine is also contraindicated breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication and for three years afterward.

Pack Size & Price

20gm tube Price : ৳100

Similar medicine

Retigel (Gel)

Manufactured by: Unimed & Unihealth Manufacturers Ltd.

Isotrex 0.05mg/100ml (Gel)

Manufactured by: GlaxoSmithKline Bangladesh Ltd.

Click here to see more similar medicines

There are few similar medicines of Retigel are manufactured by other companies using the same ingredients. Although, it would be good if you are able to use the same medicine, which has been prescribed by your Doctor. Due to availability in the local market, you can try others. Please make sure and contact your Doctor first about alternatives.