Retin-A and Renova

If there is no immediate improvement, or new blemishes appear, don't get discouraged; it takes weeks for the medicine to take effect. Continue applying the prescribed amount. (Do not increase the dosage; it may irritate your skin.)

Do not stop treatment when improvement finally occurs. You must continue therapy to maintain the beneficial effect.

--If you miss a dose...

Resume your regular schedule the next day.

--Storage instructions...

Store at ordinary room temperature. Do not freeze Renova.

What side effects may occur?

If you have sensitive skin, the use of Avita or Retin-A may cause your skin to become excessively red, puffy, blistered, or crusted. If this happens, notify your doctor, who may recommend that you discontinue the medication until your skin returns to normal, or adjust the medication to a level that you can tolerate.

An unusual darkening of the skin or lack of color of the skin may occur temporarily with repeated application of Avita or Retin-A.

Side effects of these medications are generally not severe and may include burning, dry skin, itching, peeling, redness, and stinging.

Why should Retin-A and Renova not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to either of these products, avoid using them.

The safety and effectiveness of long-term use of Retin-A in the treatment of disorders other than acne have not been established.

The safety and effectiveness of Renova 0.05 percent cream have not been established in children under age 18, adults over age 50, and people with heavily pigmented or sun-damaged skin, nor in periods of greater than 48 weeks of daily use.

The safety and effectiveness of Renova 0.02 percent cream have not been established in children under age 18, adults over age 71, and people with sun-damaged skin, nor in periods of greater than 52 weeks of daily use.

Special warnings about Retin-A and Renova

Be sure to keep these products away from the eyes, mouth, angles of the nose, and mucous membranes.

The medication may cause a brief feeling of warmth or slight stinging when applied. If it causes an abnormal irritation, redness, blistering, or peeling of the skin, notify your doctor. He may suggest that you use the medication less frequently, discontinue use temporarily, or discontinue use altogether. If a severe sensitivity reaction or chemical irritation occurs, you will probably need to stop using the drug.