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Pronunciation:

(a li TRET i noyn)

U.S. Brand Names:

Panretin®

Generic Available:

Canadian Brand Names:

Panretin®

Use:

Orphan drug: Topical treatment of cutaneous lesions in AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma

Use - Unlabeled/Investigational:

Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas

Pregnancy Risk Factor:

Pregnancy Implications:

Potentially teratogenic and/or embryotoxic; limb, craniofacial, or skeletal defects have been observed in animal models. If used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while using alitretinoin, the woman should be advised of potential harm to the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should avoid becoming pregnant.

Lactation:

Excretion in breast milk unknown/not recommended

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity to alitretinoin, other retinoids, or any component of the formulation; pregnancy

Warnings/Precautions:

May cause fetal harm if absorbed by a woman who is pregnant. May be photosensitizing (based on experience with other retinoids); minimize sun or other UV exposure of treated areas. Do not use concurrently with topical products containing DEET (increased toxicity may result). Safety in pediatric patients or geriatric patients has not been established.

Adverse Reactions:

>10%:

Central nervous system: Pain (0% to 34%)

Dermatologic: Rash (25% to 77%), pruritus (8% to 11%)

Neuromuscular & skeletal: Paresthesia (3% to 22%)

5% to 10%:

Cardiovascular: Edema (3% to 8%)

Dermatologic: Exfoliative dermatitis (3% to 9%), skin disorder (0% to 8%)

Overdosage/Toxicology:

There has been no experience with human overdosage of alitretinoin, and overdose is unlikely following topical application. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

Drug Interactions:

Increased toxicity of DEET may occur if products containing this compound are used concurrently with alitretinoin. Due to limited absorption after topical application, interaction with systemic medications is unlikely.

Stability:

Store at room temperature

Mechanism of Action:

Binds to retinoid receptors to inhibit growth of Kaposi's sarcoma

Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics:

Absorption: Not extensive

Dosage:

Topical: Apply gel twice daily to cutaneous Kaposi's sarcoma or T-cell lymphoma (unlabeled use) lesions

Administration:

Do not use occlusive dressings.

Patient Education:

For external use only. Use exactly as directed; do not overuse. Avoid use of any product such as insect repellents which contain DEET (check with your pharmacist). Wear protective clothing and/or avoid exposure to direct sun or sunlamps. Wash hands thoroughly before applying. Avoid applying skin products that contain alcohol or harsh chemicals during treatment. Do not apply occlusive dressings. Stop treatment and inform prescriber if rash, skin irritation, redness, scaling, or excessive dryness appears. Pregnancy/breast-feeding precautions: Do not get pregnant while taking this medication. Consult prescriber for appropriate contraceptive measures. Breast-feeding is not recommended.

Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment:

No significant effects or complications reported

Dental Health: Vasoconstrictor/Local Anesthetic Precautions:

No information available to require special precautions

Mental Health: Effects on Mental Status:

Pain is common

Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric Treatment:

May be photosensitizing; caution with psychotropics

Oncology: Emetic Potential:

Very low (<10%)

Dosage Forms:

Gel: 0.1% (60 g tube)

International Brand Names:

Panretin™ (CA); Panretin® (FR)

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