Praktické lekárnictvo 1/2023

Tretinoin and its use in dermatology

Due to its proven comedolytic effect, tretinoin has been used for four decades for the early stages of mild to moderate forms of acne vulgaris, either as monotherapy or in combination with antibiotics. It has the ability to stimulate new cell growth, unclog pores, and promote normal sebum flow. In addition to the above, it has the potential to favorably influence the treatment of other dermal diseases due to its ability to disrupt the inflammatory response cascade and the production of pro-inflammatory factors, which is the reason for its off-label use in indications such as psoriasis, ichthyosis, follicular keratosis, warts, etc. Due to its photoinstability, it is essential to apply it in the evening. In general, due to its lipophilicity, instability, and irritation effect, the development of a suitable dermal formulation is challenging. A promising solution is the drug encapsulation in suitable carriers such as microemulsions, nanoemulsions, and niosomes or liposomes. The review article summarizes the dermatological indications in which tretinoin treatment can be successful and directs attention to the choice of dosage form and dermal basis for a specific type of disease

Keywords: tretinoin, retinoids, topical administration, magistral preparation