Acitretin: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring

Labeled uses

Acitretin capsules are indicated for the treatment of severe psoriasis in adults. Because of significant adverse effects associated with its use, acitretin capsules should be prescribed only by those knowledgeable in the systemic use of retinoids. In females of reproductive potential, acitretin capsules should be reserved for non-pregnant patients who are unresponsive to other therapies or whose clinical condition contraindicates the use of other treatments (see boxed CONTRAINDICATIONS AND WARNINGS — acitretin capsules can cause severe birth defects).  Most patients experience relapse of psoriasis after discontinuing therapy. Subsequent courses, when clinically indicated, have produced efficacy results similar to the initial course of therapy.