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Tretinoin / ATRA (Vesanoid)

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Antineoplastic Agent Children

Tretinoin / ATRA (Vesanoid) - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Tretinoin / ATRA (Vesanoid) cause?

​​Possible side effects from Tretinoin and their management are listed below

Side Effects
Management
​Retinoic acid syndrome (Fever, weight gain, difficulty breathing)​Seek medical advice immediately if your child experiences any of the listed side effects, especially during the first month of treatment.
​Drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, weakness
​Avoid performing tasks that require your child to be mentally alert.
​Increased risk of bleedingBe safety conscious and avoid activities that may cause bruising or bleeding. If your child experiences bleeding that does not stop, or unusual bleeding (e.g. blood in the urine), please seek medical help immediately.​
Headache, bone/muscle ache​​You may give your child paracetamol to decrease/stop the headache and bone/muscle aches. If your child experiences severe aches that are not relieved by paracetamol, or a headache which occurs with nausea and vomitting or changes in eyesight/hearing, consult a doctor immediately.
Photosensitivity

Your child may be more prone to sunburns when exposed to sunlight.

Avoid too much sunlight. Use sunscreen regularly and dress your child in clothes e.g. long sleeved tops that can protect your child's skin from the sunlight.​
​Dry, itchy skin​Apply moisturiser to skin several times a day.
​Dry mouth and lips​Use lip balm several times a day. Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. Sucking on hard candy may help.
​Constipation or diarrhea
​Constipation:
Get some exercise if possible, but be sure to check with the doctor before becoming more active. Drink plenty of fluids, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Take fibre-rich foods e.g. wholemeal bread, brown rice, fresh fruits, vegetables.

Diarrhea:
Avoid oily or spicy foods, dairy products and caffeine.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Seek medical help immediately if diarrhea is persistent, bloody, or
associated with fever or severe abdominal pain.
​Nausea and vomiting ​Eat small but frequent meals. Refrain from lying down for at least two hours after each meal. Seek medical help immediately if your child experiences persistent vomiting, or vomiting accompanied by a headache.


Before taking Tretinoin / ATRA (Vesanoid) , what precautions must I follow?

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Tretinoin / ATRA (Vesanoid) ?

  • Updated on 10/6/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Pharmacy Department KK Women's and Children's Hospital
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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