ACTOID capsules contain acitretin, a retinoid medication prescribed for:
- Severe psoriasis (thickened, scaly skin)
- Ichthyosis (fish scale skin)
- Darier's disease (keratosis follicularis)
Mechanism of Action
- Regulates abnormal skin cell growth
- Normalizes keratinization process
- Reduces inflammation and scaling
Administration Guidelines
- Take orally with water; swallow whole
- Dosage determined by physician
- Pediatric use requires strict medical supervision
- Avoid crushing or breaking capsules
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to retinoids
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Severe hepatic/renal impairment
- Concomitant tetracycline or methotrexate use
Key Precautions
- May cause vision changes (avoid driving at night)
- Requires regular blood lipid monitoring
- Potential for bone growth abnormalities in children
- Strict contraception required (teratogenic risk)
Common Adverse Effects
- Mucocutaneous dryness (lips, eyes, nose)
- Alopecia
- Musculoskeletal discomfort
- Hyperlipidemia
- Photosensitivity
Serious Side Effects
- Intracranial hypertension
- Corneal damage
- Severe allergic reactions
- Hepatotoxicity
Drug Interactions
- Tetracyclines (increased intracranial pressure risk)
- Methotrexate (hepatotoxicity potentiation)
- Vitamin A supplements (additive toxicity)
- Progestin-only contraceptives (reduced efficacy)
Special Populations
- Pregnancy: Absolute contraindication
- Lactation: Avoid use
- Elderly: Dose adjustment may be needed
- Pediatrics: Restricted use (growth monitoring essential)
Patient Management Tips
- Maintain adequate hydration
- Use moisturizers for skin dryness
- Apply lip balm regularly
- Avoid excessive sun exposure
- Regular ophthalmic examinations recommended
Monitoring Requirements
- Liver function tests
- Lipid profiles
- Pregnancy tests (for women of childbearing potential)
- Growth parameters in pediatric patients
Note: This medication requires careful medical supervision. Patients should report any visual disturbances, persistent headaches, or unusual musculoskeletal pain immediately. Complete treatment course should be followed as prescribed, even if symptoms improve earlier.