Retin-A Micro 0.1% Gel Pump 50gm
It is used to treat pimples (acne).
Drug Class
Retinoid; Anti-acne agent
Pharmacologic Class
Retinoid receptor agonist
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Aug 1997
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Retin-A Micro 0.1% Gel is a medication applied to the skin to treat acne. It's a form of vitamin A that helps your skin cells turn over more normally, preventing clogged pores and reducing inflammation. It can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so daily sunscreen use is very important.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all provided information carefully. It is essential to use this medication as directed.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, as directed by your doctor. Do not take it by mouth.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the affected area thoroughly with water.
Apply the medication at bedtime.
Before and after use, wash your hands thoroughly.
Gently wash the affected skin with a mild, non-medicated soap and pat it dry. You may need to wait 20 to 30 minutes after washing before applying the medication. Consult with your pharmacist for specific guidance on using this medication.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Important Safety Precautions
This medication is flammable, so avoid using it near an open flame or while smoking.
Storage and Disposal
Store all products at room temperature, away from freezing temperatures.
Missed Dose Instructions
* If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your normal application schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses to make up for the missed one.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all provided information carefully. It is essential to use this medication as directed.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, as directed by your doctor. Do not take it by mouth.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the affected area thoroughly with water.
Apply the medication at bedtime.
Before and after use, wash your hands thoroughly.
Gently wash the affected skin with a mild, non-medicated soap and pat it dry. You may need to wait 20 to 30 minutes after washing before applying the medication. Consult with your pharmacist for specific guidance on using this medication.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Important Safety Precautions
This medication is flammable, so avoid using it near an open flame or while smoking.
Storage and Disposal
Store all products at room temperature, away from freezing temperatures.
Missed Dose Instructions
* If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your normal application schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses to make up for the missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Apply sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher) and wear protective clothing when outdoors, as tretinoin increases sun sensitivity.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure, including sunlamps and tanning beds.
- Use gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturizers.
- Avoid harsh or abrasive skin products, medicated soaps, or cosmetics that can dry or irritate the skin.
- Do not wax treated areas, as skin may be more fragile and prone to tearing.
- Be patient; it may take 8-12 weeks to see significant improvement, and acne may initially worsen (purge period).
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Retin-A 0.025% Gel 15gm
- Retin-A 0.025% Cream 20gm
- Retin-A Micro 0.08% Gel Pump 50gm
- Retin-A 0.05% Cream 20gm
- Retin-A 0.05% Cream 45gm
- Retin-A 0.025% Cream 45gm
- Retin-A 0.1% Cream 20gm
- Retin-A 0.01% Gel 15gm
- Retin-A 0.01% Gel 45gm
- Retin-A Micro 0.04% Gel 45gm
- Retin-A 0.1% Cream 45gm
- Retin-A Micro 0.1% Gel 20gm
- Retin-A 0.025% Gel 45gm
- Retin-A Micro 0.1% Gel 45gm
- Retin-A Micro 0.04% Gel Pump 50gm
- Retin-A Micro 0.1% Gel Pump 50gm
- Retin-A Micro 0.04% Gel 20gm
- Retin-A Micro 0.06% Gel Pump 50gm
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a pea-sized amount to the entire affected area of the face once daily in the evening, before bedtime.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
acne vulgaris:
Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin, avoiding eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established
Child:
Not established (generally not recommended for children under 12 years)
Adolescent:
Same as adult dosing for patients 12 years and older.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Tretinoin binds to specific retinoic acid receptors (RARs) in the nucleus, modulating gene expression. It normalizes the desquamation of follicular epithelium, reducing microcomedone formation. It also reduces inflammation and the number of Propionibacterium acnes (now Cutibacterium acnes).
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
<2% (systemic absorption from topical application)
Tmax:
Not well-defined for topical application; systemic levels, if detectable, peak hours after application.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical formulation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not available (limited systemic distribution)
ProteinBinding:
95-99% (if systemically absorbed)
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-defined for topical; systemic half-life is 0.5-2 hours if absorbed.
Clearance:
Not available
ExcretionRoute:
Biliary and renal (if systemically absorbed)
Unchanged:
Not available
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Weeks (typically 8-12 weeks for noticeable improvement)
PeakEffect:
3-6 months
DurationOfAction:
Effects persist with continued use; requires ongoing application.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- A severe skin reaction that bothers you or does not resolve on its own.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects, although many people may not experience any or may only have mild symptoms. If you are bothered by any of the following side effects or if they persist, consult your doctor for advice:
- A feeling of warmth
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Changes in skin color
- Skin reactions, including dry skin, redness, swelling, blisters, and peeling
If you develop any skin reactions, discuss them with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend temporarily stopping the medication, adjusting the dosage, or changing the frequency of application.
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor for guidance. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- A severe skin reaction that bothers you or does not resolve on its own.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects, although many people may not experience any or may only have mild symptoms. If you are bothered by any of the following side effects or if they persist, consult your doctor for advice:
- A feeling of warmth
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Changes in skin color
- Skin reactions, including dry skin, redness, swelling, blisters, and peeling
If you develop any skin reactions, discuss them with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend temporarily stopping the medication, adjusting the dosage, or changing the frequency of application.
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor for guidance. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe burning, stinging, or itching that does not subside.
- Excessive redness, swelling, blistering, or crusting of the skin.
- Signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, hives, difficulty breathing).
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you have a sunburn, sensitive skin, or any other skin conditions that may be relevant.
If you are taking any medications that may increase your skin's sensitivity to light. There are numerous drugs that can cause this interaction, so consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
If you are pregnant, as this may affect the safety of taking this medication.
Additionally, it is crucial to provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of all the medications you are currently taking, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
* Vitamins
You should also inform them about any existing health problems. This information will help your doctor determine whether it is safe for you to take this medication in conjunction with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you have a sunburn, sensitive skin, or any other skin conditions that may be relevant.
If you are taking any medications that may increase your skin's sensitivity to light. There are numerous drugs that can cause this interaction, so consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
If you are pregnant, as this may affect the safety of taking this medication.
Additionally, it is crucial to provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of all the medications you are currently taking, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
* Vitamins
You should also inform them about any existing health problems. This information will help your doctor determine whether it is safe for you to take this medication in conjunction with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
Precautions & Cautions
Important Information About Your Medication
It is crucial that you inform all of your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you have a fish allergy, discuss this with your doctor, as some products contain fish protein.
Using Your Medication Correctly
It may take several weeks to experience the full effects of this medication. To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the dosage or frequency prescribed by your doctor. Using more than the recommended amount or using it for a longer period than directed can increase the chance of very bad side effects.
Skin Precautions
Avoid applying this medication to sunburned skin, cuts, scrapes, eczema, or damaged skin. Practice good skin care and limit your sun exposure. You may be more susceptible to sunburn while using this medication, so take precautions to protect your skin:
Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds
Use sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher when outdoors
Wear protective clothing and eyewear to shield your skin from the sun
Be aware that cold and windy weather conditions may irritate your skin; consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on protecting your skin
Additionally, avoid contact with lime peels, as they may cause irritation.
Using Other Skin Products
Using other skin products while taking this medication may increase the risk of irritation. Before using any other drugs or products on your skin, including soaps, consult your doctor. If you experience dry skin, you may use a moisturizer; however, discuss the type of moisturizer to use with your doctor or pharmacist. You may use makeup unless your doctor has advised against it; if you do use makeup, clean the area to be treated before applying this medication.
Safety Precautions
If this medication is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center immediately, as it may cause harm. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor, as this medication may harm the unborn baby. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor to discuss any potential risks to your baby.
It is crucial that you inform all of your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you have a fish allergy, discuss this with your doctor, as some products contain fish protein.
Using Your Medication Correctly
It may take several weeks to experience the full effects of this medication. To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the dosage or frequency prescribed by your doctor. Using more than the recommended amount or using it for a longer period than directed can increase the chance of very bad side effects.
Skin Precautions
Avoid applying this medication to sunburned skin, cuts, scrapes, eczema, or damaged skin. Practice good skin care and limit your sun exposure. You may be more susceptible to sunburn while using this medication, so take precautions to protect your skin:
Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds
Use sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher when outdoors
Wear protective clothing and eyewear to shield your skin from the sun
Be aware that cold and windy weather conditions may irritate your skin; consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on protecting your skin
Additionally, avoid contact with lime peels, as they may cause irritation.
Using Other Skin Products
Using other skin products while taking this medication may increase the risk of irritation. Before using any other drugs or products on your skin, including soaps, consult your doctor. If you experience dry skin, you may use a moisturizer; however, discuss the type of moisturizer to use with your doctor or pharmacist. You may use makeup unless your doctor has advised against it; if you do use makeup, clean the area to be treated before applying this medication.
Safety Precautions
If this medication is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center immediately, as it may cause harm. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor, as this medication may harm the unborn baby. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor to discuss any potential risks to your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Topical overdose can lead to severe local irritation, redness, peeling, and discomfort.
- Systemic overdose from topical application is highly unlikely due to minimal absorption.
What to Do:
If severe local irritation occurs, discontinue use temporarily or reduce frequency. For accidental ingestion, seek medical attention. Call a poison control center immediately (e.g., 1-800-222-1222 in the US).
Drug Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Other topical acne preparations (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, resorcinol) due to potential for additive irritation or drying.
- Abrasive soaps, cleansers, or cosmetics with strong drying effects.
- Medicated soaps or cosmetics that are irritating or drying.
Minor Interactions
- Photosensitizing agents (e.g., tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, thiazide diuretics) may increase risk of sunburn when used concurrently with tretinoin.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin assessment
Rationale: To evaluate acne severity, skin type, and baseline sensitivity.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Skin irritation (redness, peeling, dryness, burning)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment, especially during the initial weeks.
Target: Mild to moderate irritation is expected; severe irritation should prompt dose adjustment or temporary discontinuation.
Action Threshold: Severe or persistent irritation; patient discomfort.
Acne improvement
Frequency: Monthly or as clinically indicated.
Target: Reduction in lesion count and overall acne severity.
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement after 3-6 months of consistent use.
Symptom Monitoring
- Excessive dryness
- Peeling or flaking of skin
- Redness (erythema)
- Burning sensation
- Stinging sensation
- Itching
- Swelling
- Crusting
- Blistering
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. While systemic absorption is minimal, topical tretinoin should generally be avoided during pregnancy due to theoretical risk of teratogenicity and the availability of safer alternatives. Oral tretinoin is highly teratogenic (Category X).
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Theoretical risk of teratogenicity; avoid.
Second Trimester:
Theoretical risk; avoid.
Third Trimester:
Theoretical risk; avoid.
Lactation
L3 (Moderately Safe). Minimal systemic absorption is expected, making infant exposure unlikely. However, caution is advised. Avoid applying to areas where the infant may come into direct contact with the medication, especially the breast area.
Infant Risk:
Low risk of adverse effects due to minimal systemic absorption.
Pediatric Use
Safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 12 years of age. Use in adolescents (12 years and older) is generally consistent with adult dosing.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments are necessary. However, older patients may have more sensitive or fragile skin and may experience increased irritation or dryness. Use with caution and monitor skin response.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Start with a lower concentration or less frequent application (e.g., every other night) to minimize initial irritation, then gradually increase frequency as tolerated.
- Apply to completely dry skin, typically 20-30 minutes after washing the face, to reduce irritation.
- A 'purge' period (initial worsening of acne) is common during the first few weeks of treatment as the skin adjusts and underlying lesions come to the surface.
- Consistent, long-term use is crucial for optimal results. Do not expect immediate improvement.
- Emphasize the importance of strict sun protection (sunscreen, protective clothing) due to increased photosensitivity.
- Use a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer to help manage dryness and irritation.
Alternative Therapies
- Topical antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin, erythromycin)
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Azelaic acid
- Oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline)
- Oral isotretinoin (for severe, recalcitrant acne)
- Hormonal therapies (e.g., oral contraceptives, spironolactone for hormonal acne)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$200 - $600+ per 50gm pump
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 2 or Tier 3 (may require prior authorization)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe and effective treatment, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.