Soriatane

The active ingredient in Soriatane is acitretin. It is an oral retinoid, which is a synthetic form of vitamin A. It functions by reducing skin cell formation and irritation. It can aid in psoriasis resolution by reducing the proliferation of skin cells.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Soriatane. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Soriatane:

• Soriatane should be taken with food.
• When you start using Soriatane, your psoriasis may worsen, and it could take two to three months before your symptoms get better. If your symptoms don't get better, keep taking the medication as prescribed and let your doctor know.
• Regular blood tests may be required when taking Soriatane. Long-term usage of this medication may necessitate further medical examinations, such as X-rays.
• Even if someone else has the same symptoms as you, never share this medication.
• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and always apply sunscreen while on Soriatane.
• If you have not undergone a full menopause or had a hysterectomy, you must have two negative pregnancy tests before you begin taking it. Pregnancy tests will also be required monthly while taking this medication and every three months for at least three years following your last dosage. Only women who agree to use approved birth control methods and undertake mandatory pregnancy tests while taking Soriatane and for at least three years following their last dose are eligible to use this medication.

The most common side effects of Soriatane include:

• High cholesterol and fat levels.
• Chapped lips.
• Hair loss.
• Skin peeling.
• Itching or dry skin.
• Dry mouth and dry eyes.
• Tiredness.
• Joint pain.
• Chest pain.
• Nosebleeds.
• Nail changes.
• Nerve pain.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Soriatane. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Hives, itching, facial, oral, or tongue swelling, breathing difficulties, and peeling skin are all signs of an allergic reaction.
• Rapid weight gain, fever, and low blood pressure are symptoms of capillary leak syndrome.
• Severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision are signs of high blood pressure.
• Blurred vision or a decrease in night vision (night blindness).
• Increased risk of birth defects.
• Depression or suicidal thoughts.
• Shortness of breath, lightheadedness, nausea, chest discomfort, weakness, difficulty speaking, and leg swelling are symptoms of a heart attack, blood clot, or stroke.
• Serious liver issues include dark urine, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes.
• Dangerously elevated blood sugar levels.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Soriatane. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Soriatane, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether any of the following apply:

• Severe liver disease or severe kidney disease.
• High levels of triglycerides (a type of fat) in your blood.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Phototherapy.
• Wear contact lenses.
• Heart disease.
• Diabetes.
• Depression.
• Using methotrexate.
• Use a tetracycline antibiotic (such as demeclocycline, doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline, and others).

Boxed Warning

Severe birth defects can be caused by Soriatane. If you are pregnant or may get pregnant within three years of stopping this medication, do not use it. To prevent pregnancy while taking this medication and for at least three years following your final dose, you must utilize two reliable methods of contraception.

• Severe kidney or liver damage.
• Individuals whose blood lipid levels are unusually elevated.
• Pregnant women.
• In combination with methotrexate.
• Using antibiotics that contain tetracyclines.
• Allergies to other retinoids like etretinate, vitamin A, isotretinoin, and tretinoin.

Before you can fully benefit from acitretin, it may take two to three months. Sometimes, your skin may look worse before it starts to get better. If you're unsure if acitretin is helping you, consult your dermatologist.

When Soriatane is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Glyburide.
• Phenytoin.
• St. John's wort.
• Hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills (especially "minipills").

For adults, the usual dose is 25 to 50 mg taken orally once daily with your main meal. Based on how you react to acitretin, your doctor may change your dosage.

If you miss a dose, take the next dose according to your regular schedule and skip the missed dose. Avoid taking more than one dose.

Store at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children.

Stiefel Laboratories, Inc. is the manufacturer of Soriatane.

There are lower-cost generics available for Soriatane.

This medication shouldn't be stopped without consulting your doctor first.

You should not take this medication while pregnant, as it causes severe birth defects. Multiple forms of birth control are needed when taking this medication.

Acitretin is found in breast milk and may have detrimental effects on the breastfeeding infant. When taking this medication, avoid nursing.