Acitretin

What is Acitretin Capsule?

Acitretin Capsule is an oral medication prescribed to treat severe psoriasis and other stubborn skin disorders where the skin grows and sheds too quickly. It helps slow down excessive cell growth, reducing redness, scaling, and thickened patches of skin. This medicine belongs to a group of drugs called retinoids, which are derived from Vitamin A and help normalize skin cell development.

It is usually prescribed when topical creams or other treatments have not provided enough relief.

Acitretin Capsule is used for

Acitretin Capsule is mainly used to treat:

• Chronic plaque psoriasis

• Pustular or erythrodermic psoriasis

• Severe keratinization disorders (like ichthyosis)

• Skin conditions unresponsive to other therapies

Because of its long-acting results, it’s typically prescribed under strict medical supervision.

Chemical composition

Each capsule contains:

• Acitretin as the active ingredient (usually 10 mg, 25 mg, or 50 mg strength).
  Inactive components such as sorbitol, gelatin, and coloring agents may vary by manufacturer.

As a Vitamin A derivative, Acitretin should not be combined with other retinoid or Vitamin A supplements.

Acitretin Capsule mechanism

Acitretin works by modifying the way skin cells grow and mature. It binds to specific nuclear receptors in skin cells, helping regulate cell turnover and reduce scaling and inflammation. Over time, this restores a smoother, healthier skin surface and decreases plaque formation.

It does not suppress the immune system but instead works at the cellular level to control skin renewal.

How it helps manage severe psoriasis

In psoriasis, skin cells multiply faster than normal, causing thick, scaly lesions. Acitretin Capsule slows this process, reducing skin buildup and inflammation. When used consistently, it minimizes flare-ups, improves texture, and enhances comfort and appearance. Many patients notice visible improvements within a few weeks of continuous therapy.

What are the other benefits?

• Improves responsiveness to topical psoriasis treatments

• Helps reduce itching and skin irritation

• May prevent recurrence of severe lesions after therapy

• Suitable for long-term maintenance under medical guidance

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Dosages

The dosage of Acitretin Capsules varies for each individual depending on age, weight, and skin condition severity. It should only be taken as directed by a dermatologist.

Available strengths or dosage

Commonly available strengths include:

• Acitretin 10 mg capsule

• Acitretin 25 mg capsule

• Acitretin 50 mg capsule

Doctors often begin with a lower dose and adjust it based on the response and tolerance.

How and when to take it

• Take the capsule with food or milk to enhance absorption.

• Swallow whole; do not crush or chew.

• It is typically taken once daily, preferably at the same time each day.

• Follow your doctor’s directions carefully, and do not alter the dose without consultation.

Women of childbearing potential must use reliable birth control before, during, and for several years after treatment, as the medicine can cause severe birth defects.

Overdose caution

Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Overdose symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, or vision changes. In case of accidental overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

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Who can use/take Acitretin Capsules?

This medicine is mainly intended for adults with severe psoriasis or similar keratinization disorders that have not responded to other treatments.

It should not be used by:

• Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy within 3 years after stopping the medicine

• Breastfeeding mothers

• Individuals with severe liver or kidney disease

• Patients with high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, unless monitored closely

• People consuming large amounts of alcohol

Both men and women taking Acitretin should follow strict medical and contraceptive guidance.

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Side Effects & Precautions

What are the side effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dry lips, mouth, or eyes

• Peeling or redness of skin

• Hair thinning or fragile nails

• Headache or joint pain

• Temporary increase in liver enzymes or cholesterol levels

These usually improve with continued use or after dosage adjustment. Serious but rare side effects include mood changes, vision problems, or severe liver issues.

What is the Precautions to avoid side effects

• Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least two months after stopping.

• Use moisturizers and lip balm regularly to reduce dryness.

• Avoid excessive sunlight; use sunscreen and protective clothing.

• Do not donate blood while taking Acitretin and for 3 years afterward.

• Have regular blood tests to monitor liver function and lipid levels.

Always follow your dermatologist’s instructions for safe and effective use.

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Always consult your doctor before starting this medicine. If prescribed, you can order Acitretin Capsules online safely from trusted pharmacy sources and ensure timely refills to maintain your treatment progress.