Skip to main content
Print Save

Alitretinoin Topical Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 25, 2021.

Applies to the following strengths: 0.1%

Usual Adult Dose for:

Additional dosage information:

Usual Adult Dose for Kaposi's Sarcoma

Initial dose: Apply a generous coating of gel to cutaneous lesions 2 times a day; may gradually increase applications to 3 to 4 times a day based on individual lesion tolerance

Comments:

  • If application site toxicity occurs, the application frequency may be reduced; if irritation is severe, application may be temporarily discontinued for a few days until symptoms subside.
  • Therapy should be continued as long as the patient is deriving benefit.

Use: For the topical treatment of cutaneous lesions in patients with AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma; this drug is not indicated when systemic therapy is needed (e.g., more than 10 new lesions in prior month, symptomatic lymphedema, symptomatic pulmonary Kaposi's sarcoma, or symptomatic visceral involvement)

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Precautions

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:

  • For topical use only
  • Avoid application to normal skin surrounding lesions and on or near mucosal body surfaces due to potential for irritation.
  • Allow gel to dry for 3 to 5 minutes before covering with clothing.
  • Occlusive dressings should not be used.

General:
  • There is no experience using this drug for the systemic treatment of Kaposi's sarcoma.
  • Response of Kaposi's sarcoma lesions may be seen as early as 2 weeks after initiating therapy; however, most patients require longer treatment. Some patients required over 14 weeks to respond to therapy and in clinical trials, up to 96 weeks of treatment was observed.

Patient advice:
  • Minimize exposure of treated areas to sunlight and sunlamps while using this drug.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer