Major Research Findings

Acitretin is a retinoid medication used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis vulgaris and vitiligo. Multiple studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of acitretin. However, acitretin is known to cause a range of side effects, and research into the mechanisms and management of these side effects is ongoing.

Acitretin can cause a variety of side effects, including dry skin, dry lips, visual impairment, liver dysfunction, dyslipidemia, and skeletal abnormalities. The severity and frequency of these side effects can vary depending on the dose and duration of acitretin treatment, the patient's age and genetic makeup, and other factors.

Reasons for Side Effects

Acitretin is a retinoid medication, which is a derivative of vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a vital role in skin growth and development; however, excessive intake can lead to various side effects.

Acitretin's side effects encompass dry skin, dry lips, visual impairment, liver dysfunction, dyslipidemia, skeletal abnormalities, and more. These side effects are believed to arise from a complex interplay of factors, such as the mechanism of action of acitretin, its metabolic pathway in the body, and the patient's genetic background.

Common Side Effects

Dry Skin

Acitretin can cause dry skin by impairing the skin's ability to retain moisture. This is attributed to acitretin's reduction in the amount of a water channel called aquaporin 3. 23

Dry Lips

Acitretin can lead to dry lips by diminishing the lips' capacity to retain moisture. This is due to acitretin's reduction in the amount of a water channel called aquaporin 3. 23

Visual Impairment

Acitretin might cause visual impairment by impacting the optic nerve. 24

Liver Dysfunction

Acitretin can potentially cause liver dysfunction by placing a strain on the liver. Therefore, regular liver function tests are crucial during acitretin treatment. 3 、 16 、 14

Dyslipidemia

Acitretin can potentially lead to dyslipidemia by disrupting lipid metabolism in the blood. Hence, regular lipid tests are recommended during acitretin treatment. 3 、 16 、、 8

Skeletal Abnormalities

Acitretin could potentially cause skeletal abnormalities by influencing bone growth. Notably, children and adolescents experiencing a growth spurt are considered to have a higher risk of skeletal abnormalities. 3 、 4 、 19 、

Other Side Effects

In addition to the aforementioned side effects, acitretin might cause headaches, nausea, indigestion, fatigue, hair loss, nail abnormalities, stomatitis, depression, pseudotumor cerebri, angioedema, and other adverse reactions. 2 、 21 、 13 、 6

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Countermeasures for Dry Skin

To prevent dry skin, it is essential to apply moisturizer regularly. Additionally, during bathing, maintaining a lower water temperature and avoiding prolonged baths is advisable. 23

Countermeasures for Dry Lips

To prevent dry lips, frequent application of lip balm is crucial. In environments with dry air, using a humidifier can also be beneficial. 23

Countermeasures for Visual Impairment

To prevent visual impairment, regular ophthalmological examinations and vision tests are essential. 24

Countermeasures for Liver Dysfunction

To prevent liver dysfunction, regular liver function tests are crucial, and consulting a doctor if abnormal values are detected is vital. Furthermore, limiting alcohol intake is recommended. 3 、 16 、 14

Countermeasures for Dyslipidemia

To prevent dyslipidemia, improving lifestyle habits through dietary therapy and exercise is essential. If necessary, consulting a doctor for appropriate medication is advisable. 3 、 16 、、 8

Countermeasures for Skeletal Abnormalities

To prevent skeletal abnormalities, it is essential for children and adolescents during their growth spurt to have their bone growth monitored regularly. 3 、 4 、 19 、

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities between Studies

Numerous studies have demonstrated that acitretin is effective for skin conditions such as psoriasis vulgaris and vitiligo. Additionally, it is a shared finding across studies that acitretin has the potential to cause a range of side effects.

Differences between Studies

The frequency and severity of acitretin side effects, as well as the timing of their onset, can vary across studies. This variability is believed to stem from differences in the age, gender, type of disease, dosage, and duration of acitretin treatment among the study participants.

Precautions for Real-Life Applications

Acitretin can cause various side effects, so it is crucial to always adhere to your doctor's instructions when taking it. Notably, pregnant women or women planning pregnancy should avoid acitretin. 16 、 6 、 Furthermore, while taking acitretin, regular blood tests and liver function tests are necessary to monitor for side effects. 16 、

Limitations of Current Research

Research on the side effects of acitretin is still insufficient. Further investigation into the mechanisms underlying acitretin side effects and the development of preventative measures is particularly warranted. Additionally, interactions between acitretin and other medications have not been extensively studied.

Future Research Directions

Further research is necessary to delve deeper into the side effects of acitretin. Elucidating the mechanisms behind these side effects and developing preventative measures and treatments are of paramount importance. Moreover, a more in-depth examination of the interactions between acitretin and other medications is required.

Conclusion

Acitretin is an effective medication for skin conditions such as psoriasis vulgaris and vitiligo, but it can potentially cause a range of side effects. When taking acitretin, always adhere to your doctor's instructions and be vigilant for side effects. Further research on side effects is warranted.