Brand Names: Vesanoid

Generic Name: tretinoin (Pronunciation: TRET i noin)

• What is tretinoin (Vesanoid)?
• What are the possible side effects of tretinoin (Vesanoid)?
• What is the most important information I should know about tretinoin (Vesanoid)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking tretinoin (Vesanoid)?
• How should I use tretinoin (Vesanoid)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Vesanoid)?
• What happens if I overdose (Vesanoid)?
• What should I avoid while using tretinoin (Vesanoid)?
• What other drugs will affect tretinoin (Vesanoid)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is tretinoin (Vesanoid)?

Tretinoin is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Tretinoin is used to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia (a type of blood cancer).

Tretinoin may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of tretinoin (Vesanoid)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• fever, breathing problems, weight gain, swelling of your hands or feet;
• sudden and severe pain behind your eyes, with nausea, vomiting, and vision problems;
• black, bloody, or tarry stools; or
• vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds.

Less serious side effects may include:

• feeling tired or weak;
• headache;
• fever;
• dry skin, mouth, or nose;
• bone pain;
• nausea and vomiting;
• rash or itching;
• white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips;
• increased sweating;
• vision problems; or
• hair loss or skin changes.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Read the Vesanoid (tretinoin) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

What is the most important information I should know about tretinoin (Vesanoid)?

Do not use vitamin A supplements or multivitamins that contain vitamin A while you are taking tretinoin.

Tretinoin can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.