Aceret-25 (Acitretin) - 25mg (10 Capsules)

Acitretin is a type of medicine called a ‘retinoid’ Retinoids have a structure similar to vitamin A and it is involved with the production and growth of skin cells

How does it work?

Acitretin works by inhibiting the over-production of skin cells and the protein within them, thus reducing plaques, scaling and the redness connected with this process

What is it used for?

• Palmo-plantar pustular psoriasis (pustular psoriasis affecting the palms of the hands and soles of the feet)
• Severe congenital ichthyosis
• Severe Darier's disease
• Severe psoriasis

Dosage

Acitretin is taken by tablet or capsule form once a day and normally with a meal It is best to try and take it at roughly the same time each day Prescribed amounts can vary, but it is usual to start on a lower dose and have this increased as and when it is necessary to control psoriasis clearance Some people get excellent results on a lower dose, others need to have their dose upped frequently The lowest starting dose is approx 10mg per day and the maximum is usually no more than 75 mg Be careful when taking your dose – check you are taking exactly the right amount.

Common side effects

• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes
• Dry skin and lips, peeling
• Reducted night vision
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
• Loss of hair and changes in hair texture
• Muscle and joint pain
• Nose bleeds, weak nails, swollen ankles, feeling sick or unwell, headache, drowsiness, runny nose, sweating, inflamed gums and disturbed sense of taste

Aceret-25 (Acitretin) is the generic name. It is available as brand Neotigason.