alitretinoin

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

Local: pain, pruritus, rash, dermatitis, edema, paresthesia

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

May ↑ absorption of insect repellent products containing N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET); avoid concurrent use.

Availability ⬆ ⬇

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

(Adults ): Apply generous coating twice daily to Kaposi's sarcoma lesions initially; may ↑ frequency, if needed, to 3–4 times daily.

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Action ⬆ ⬇

Binds to and activates retinoid receptors, resulting in inhibition of Kaposi's sarcoma cells.

Therapeutic effects:

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: antineoplastics

Pharmacologic Classification: retinoids

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: Small amounts are absorbed.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism/Excretion: Some metabolism occurs.

Half-Life: Unknown.

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(response of Kaposi's sarcoma lesions)

ROUTE	ONSET	PEAK	DURATION
topical	2 wk	4–14 wk	unknown

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Instruct patient in correct method for application of gel. Emphasize the importance of continuing treatment, even if results are not visible. Prolonged therapy may be required.
Advise patient to notify health care professional if signs of dermal toxicity occur.
Caution patient to minimize exposure of treated areas to sunlight or sunlamps to prevent photosensitivity reactions.
Advise patient to avoid use of products, such as insect repellents, which contain DEET during treatment. Alitretinoin may increase DEET toxicity.
Rep: May cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential to notify health care professional if pregnancy is planned or suspected and to avoid breastfeeding during therapy.