What does it do?

Acitretin is used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis.

How should you take it?

Take acitretin regularly as directed. Take it with food and a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with acitretin including:

• preparations containing Vitamin A (e.g. Centrum®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Low mood, unusual behaviour or thinking Headache, changes in vision, pounding in one or both ears (may be intracranial hypertension)	Tell your doctor immediately
Dry or irritated lips, mouth, nose or eyes Dry or fragile skin Nose bleeds More sensitive to sunlight (sunburn or rash) Hair loss or thinning Joint, muscle or bone aches and pains	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Acitretin must not be used if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding because of a high risk of abnormalities in the developing baby. It is very important to wait 3 years after stopping acitretin before trying to get pregnant.
• Adequate contraception is essential while on this medicine. The effectiveness of some oral contraceptive pills may be affected by acitretin. Discuss with your doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you have liver problems, high cholesterol or a mental health problem.
• Acitretin may interact with alcohol. Discuss with your doctor.
• Psoriasis may worsen at the beginning of treatment.
• Protect yourself from too much sunlight while being treated with acitretin. Always cover up and apply a thick layer of broad spectrum sunscreen (at least SPF 30) when outside. Do not use sunbeds.
• Acitretin may decrease night vision. Take care when driving at night.
• Do not donate blood while taking acitretin and for 3 years after stopping it.