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If you have a prescription for RETIN-A MICRO Please read this information carefully before you start using RETIN-A MICRO. Be sure to check back at this website each time you get your prescription refilled, because there may be new information about RETIN-A MICRO. This website provides a summary of information about RETIN-A MICRO. It does not include everything there is to know about your medicine. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor or dermatologist. Back to Top
What it is RETIN-A MICRO is a topical prescription acne treatment that many doctors and dermatologists consider one of the most effective to treat acne. It can start clearing up skin in as little as two weeks, with full results after seven. It even helps prevent new breakouts. RETIN-A MICRO is the only acne medication with patented microspheres that contain tretinoin, the medicine prescribed #1 by dermatologists. An innovative acne treatment, RETIN-A MICRO helps clear up skin with low levels of skin irritation. RETIN-A MICRO is available from your doctor in two strengths, so ask which one is right for you. Back to Top
What microspheres are Microspheres are round microscopic particles made of synthetic polymer. These particles hold tretinoin in the Microsponge® system, and the medication is formulated into a gel. The microspheres hold the medication in reserve, allowing the skin to absorb small amounts of tretinoin over time. Dermatologists who conducted clinical studies believe this may be why most RETIN-A MICRO patients experience low levels of skin irritation. The microspheres remain on top of the skin and are easily washed off when you shower or wash your face. Back to Top
What RETIN-A MICRO is indicated for RETIN-A MICRO is indicated for topical application in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Back to Top
How it differs from RETIN-A® While both RETIN-A and RETIN- A MICRO contain the same active ingredient, only RETIN-A MICRO offers the benefits of tretinoin with the patented microsphere delivery system to provide low levels of irritation. RETIN-A MICRO is a water-based gel that can be applied immediately after you wash your face, unlike RETIN-A, which requires a 20 to 30 minute waiting period. RETIN-A MICRO also reduces the appearance of facial shine. Back to Top
What it does Although its exact mode of action is unknown, tretinoin is thought to loosen and expel existing acne plugs under the skin and prevent new blemishes from forming. The microspheres, which release the medication in RETIN-A MICRO, remain on top of the skin and are easily washed off when you shower or wash your face. Back to Top
Irritation profile In clinical studies, the RETIN-A MICRO irritation profile was found to be similar to a mild, local irritant. The most common adverse reactions to RETIN-A MICRO were limited to mild or moderate irritation of the skin. It is recommended that RETIN-A MICRO be applied once daily in the evening after washing your face. This product must also be used with caution in the sunlight. Daily sun protection is important because RETIN-A MICRO, like many other prescription acne treatments, may make your skin more susceptible to sunburn Back to Top
Precautions Be sure to talk with your dermatologist about all of the skincare products you're using. Preparations that may dry or irritate skin should be avoided. If a reaction suggesting sensitivity or irritation occurs, consult a doctor. Talk to your doctor before using over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide with RETIN-A MICRO. Tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide neutralize each other when applied at the same time. Unprotected exposure to sunlight, including sunlamps, should be minimized and patients with sunburn should be advised not to use the product until fully recovered. Wearing sunscreen is highly recommended. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, think you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using RETIN-A MICRO, contact your doctor right away. Back to Top
Contraindications Discontinue use of the product if you are allergic to or appear to have an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients. Back to Top
Appearance RETIN-A MICRO is an alcohol-free, water-based gel with microspheres. The microspheres have an opaque powder appearance and cause the gel to look more like a cream. Its yellow appearance is primarily a result of the active ingredient, tretinoin, which is a yellow crystalline powder. Back to Top
RETIN-A MICRO and insurance RETIN-A MICRO is covered by approximately 93% of all national healthcare plans. Back to Top
Manufacturer/Marketer RETIN-A MICRO is marketed by OrthoNeutrogena. Microsponge Systems were developed by Enhanced Derm Technologies, Inc. Back to Top
Full U.S. Prescribing Information You will need the Adobe Acrobat Reader in order to view the full U.S. Prescribing Information. If you do not already have it, you can download it for free from Adobe's website. For RETIN-A MICRO 0.1% and 0.04% For RETIN-A Back to Top
©2003-2008 OrthoNeutrogena, a division of Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Capitalized product names are trademarks of OrthoNeutrogena. This site intended for U.S. residents only. Site last updated: 12 October 2007
