Soricap
Generic Name
Acitretin
Manufacturer
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
Country
India
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| soricap 10 mg capsule | ৳ 45.00 | ৳ 315.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Acitretin is a synthetic retinoid indicated for severe resistant psoriasis and other disorders of keratinization. It works by normalizing cell growth and differentiation in the skin.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initially 25-50 mg daily as a single dose or in divided doses for 2-4 weeks. Maintenance dose: 25-50 mg daily, adjusted according to response and tolerability, usually for 6-8 weeks, then tapered. Maximum 75 mg daily.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment required, but caution due to potential age-related organ impairment.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated in severe renal impairment. Use with caution in mild to moderate impairment.
How to Take
Take capsules with food or milk, preferably once daily with the main meal. Swallow whole, do not chew or open.
Mechanism of Action
Acitretin is a retinoid that modulates keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation. It binds to nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RARs), particularly RAR-alpha, RAR-beta, and RAR-gamma, leading to changes in gene expression that regulate cell growth and differentiation, reducing hyperkeratosis and inflammation in psoriatic lesions.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects typically seen after 2-4 weeks, maximum effect in 3-6 months.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in bile (about 34-54%) and urine (about 16-52%).
Half life
Parent drug: 2-4 days. Active metabolite (13-cis-acitretin, or etretinate in some cases due to transesterification if alcohol is consumed): up to 120 days.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, enhanced by food. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 2-5 hours.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver to various isomers and glucuronide conjugates. It undergoes interconversion to its 13-cis isomer (cis-acitretin). Can form etretinate if alcohol is consumed.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Pregnancy and women of childbearing potential not using effective contraception (highly teratogenic)
- •Severe hepatic or renal impairment
- •Hypersensitivity to retinoids or any excipients
- •Chronic excessive alcohol intake (risk of etretinate formation)
- •Concomitant use with methotrexate or tetracyclines
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Can lead to the formation of etretinate, a highly teratogenic substance with a very long half-life.
Phenytoin
Reduced protein binding of phenytoin.
Methotrexate
Increased risk of hepatotoxicity.
Tetracyclines
Increased risk of benign intracranial hypertension.
Vitamin A and other retinoids
Increased risk of hypervitaminosis A.
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, dizziness, vertigo, and visual disturbances. Treatment is supportive; discontinuation of the drug.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Acitretin is HIGHLY TERATOGENIC (Category X). Absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy and in women who may become pregnant. Lactation: Contraindicated in breastfeeding mothers as it is likely excreted in breast milk and can cause serious adverse effects in the infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
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