Soriatane (Acitretin)

Soriatane is used to treat severe psoriasis and other dermal conditions determined by your physician.  The dose prescribed will be based on tolerability of the medicine and the clinical appearance of the condition.  

Information about Soriatane (Acitretin)

Soriatane is a medication that contains acitretin, a synthetic retinoid (a vitamin A derivative). It is mainly used to treat severe psoriasis and other related skin conditions. Acitretin works by affecting the growth and development of skin cells, helping to reduce the scaling and inflammation associated with these conditions. Soriatane is typically prescribed when other treatments for psoriasis have not been effective or tolerated, and it is available in oral tablet form.

Product Highlights

• Soriatane is particularly effective in treating severe forms of psoriasis, including pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis, which do not respond to topical treatments.
• It may also be used to treat other skin conditions that involve abnormal skin cell growth, such as certain types of dermatitis or keratinization disorders.
• Soriatane is often used when other treatments, such as topical therapies or phototherapy, have failed to manage symptoms effectively.

Key Ingredient

• Acitretin

Key Benefits

• Soriatane is highly effective for treating severe, resistant psoriasis, reducing symptoms like scaling, redness, and itching.
• Acitretin reduces the inflammation associated with psoriasis and other similar skin conditions.
• Many patients experience long-term improvements in their skin condition, with fewer flare-ups, once they have completed a treatment course.
• In addition to reducing the severity of psoriasis, Soriatane can help improve the overall appearance and texture of the skin.

Direction of Use

• The dosage of Soriatane varies depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's response. Generally, it is taken as an oral tablet once or twice daily with food.
• Soriatane should be taken with food to improve absorption, as it is better absorbed when taken with fat-containing meals.
• Treatment duration varies; patients often require several months of therapy to see significant improvement, and the medication is usually tapered down once symptoms are controlled.
• Patients on Soriatane should be monitored regularly by a healthcare provider to assess treatment effectiveness and detect any adverse effects.

Safety Concerns

• Common side effects of Soriatane include dry skin, lips, and eyes, as well as hair thinning, joint pain, and changes in liver enzymes.
• Acitretin is highly teratogenic (can cause birth defects) and must not be used during pregnancy or by women planning to become pregnant. Female patients must adhere to strict contraceptive measures during treatment and for at least 2 years after stopping the medication.
• Liver function should be monitored regularly as Soriatane can affect liver enzymes. Elevated liver enzymes may indicate liver toxicity.
• Acitretin can increase cholesterol and triglyceride levels, so blood lipid levels should be checked regularly during treatment.
• Long-term use of retinoids can lead to bone problems, including osteoporosis, so patients should discuss bone health with their doctor, especially those on long-term therapy.
• Rarely, retinoids like acitretin can cause mood changes, including depression, so patients should be monitored for any psychological side effects.

Avoid Soriatane (Acitretin) If

• Soriatane is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to the high risk of birth defects. Women must use two forms of contraception during treatment and for at least 2 years after stopping the medication.
• Individuals with a history of liver disease or abnormal liver function tests should not take Soriatane without medical supervision.
• Patients with high cholesterol or triglyceride levels should avoid Soriatane or be closely monitored during treatment, as it may worsen lipid levels.
• Those with a history of osteoporosis or other bone conditions should use Soriatane cautiously, as it may affect bone health.
• People with a known allergy to acitretin, other retinoids, or any of the inactive ingredients in Soriatane should not take this medication.
• Individuals with severe kidney problems should avoid using Soriatane or consult their doctor for alternative treatment options.
• Since acitretin may cause mood changes or depression, it should be used with caution in individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders.