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Panretin is used to treat skin lesions caused by AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma. It is thought to work by preventing the growth of Kaposi’s sarcoma cells. Common side effects include skin reactions such as redness, rash, irritation, burning, pain, itching, flaking, peeling, stinging, tingling, and swelling. Panretin is available as a gel that is applied to the skin.

Uses

What is Panretin used for?

Panretin (alitretinoin) is commonly used to treat skin lesions caused by AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma. 

Panretin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does Panretin work (mechanism of action)?

Panretin contains alitretinoin, which is a form of vitamin A that helps control cell growth. It works by attaching to special receptors in the body, which affect how cells grow and develop. This may help slow down the growth of Kaposi’s sarcoma cells.

How is Panretin supplied (dosage forms)?

Panretin is available as a 0.1% topical gel.

How should I store Panretin?

Panretin should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Keep Panretin away from open flames.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Panretin?

The most common side effect of Panretin is a skin reaction near the application site. Skin reactions may include redness, rash, irritation, burning, pain, itching, flaking, peeling, stinging, tingling, and swelling. Tell your health care provider if you have any skin reactions that bother you.

There may be other side effects of Panretin that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Panretin?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Panretin are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Panretin may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using Panretin and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Severe Skin Reactions. Panretin may cause skin reactions, which can be serious. Stop using Panretin and call your health care provider right away if you have severe redness, blisters, swelling, or any other concerning skin reactions.

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Panretin?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use Panretin.

  • Alitretinoin
  • Panretin
  • Any other medicine known as a retinoid
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Panretin.

What should I know about Panretin before using it?

Do not use Panretin unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Your health care provider will tell you how often to apply Panretin. Use it exactly as prescribed. Make sure that you or a caregiver understands how to properly use Panretin. Before using Panretin, read the Patient Instructions for Use that comes with your prescription. If you have any questions, talk to your health care provider. 

Do not share Panretin with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Panretin should be applied to the skin. Do not apply Panretin on or near the eyes, nostrils, mouth, lips, vagina, tip of the penis, anus, or rectum. Do not apply any bandages or other coverings over the areas where you use Panretin.

Keep Panretin out of the reach of children.

It might take up to 14 weeks or even longer for Panretin to work. Continue to use it as directed. 

Panretin can make your skin more sensitive to light from the sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. This is called photosensitivity. Exposure to this light can cause severe sunburns, blisters, and swelling. If you need to be in sunlight, wear sunscreen, a hat, and clothing that covers your skin.

What should I tell my health care provider before using Panretin?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if Panretin is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Other Medicines and Supplements. Panretin may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before using Panretin, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregnancy. Panretin may cause harm to a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. You should avoid becoming pregnant while using Panretin. You can talk to your health care provider about the best type of birth control for you. If you become pregnant while using Panretin, call your health care provider right away.

Breastfeeding. Do not use Panretin while you are breastfeeding. It is not known if Panretin passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

How can I get more information about Panretin?

For more information about Panretin, you can call the drugmaker at 877-370-1142.

Interactions

Does Panretin interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between Panretin and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Panretin.

Does Panretin interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any products that contain DEET, which is an ingredient commonly found in insect repellent products.

This may not be a complete list of medicines that can interact with Panretin. Always check with your health care provider.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Panretin?

If you or someone else has used too much Panretin, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Panretin?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.