Retrieve (Tretinoin)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Retrieve Used For?
Retrieve is a topical medication that contains tretinoin, which is the acid form of Vitamin A. It’s specifically designed to help improve the appearance and health of damaged skin.
Primary Uses
Retrieve is used for treating dry, sun-damaged skin. Your doctor may also prescribe it for other skin conditions.
How It Works
Retrieve works by regulating the growth and regeneration of the outer layer of your skin, helping to restore healthier skin appearance and texture.
Good to know: Your doctor will assess how your skin responds to treatment and may adjust the application schedule based on your skin’s tolerance.
How to Take Retrieve
Retrieve requires a gradual introduction to allow your skin to adjust to the medication. Follow your doctor’s specific instructions carefully.
Dosage Instructions
Apply a thin layer to affected skin areas once daily before bed. Start with a gradual program: First night – apply for 5 minutes then wash off, Second night – 10 minutes, Third night – 30 minutes, Fourth night – 1 hour, Fifth night – 1.5 hours, Sixth night – 2 hours. If no irritation occurs after 2-hour application, you may leave on overnight. Wash affected areas with mild soap-free cleanser and lukewarm water before application. Massage cream in gently and wash hands thoroughly after use.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss your usual application time, apply when you remember and continue with your normal schedule. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as normal.
Important: Never apply a double dose to make up for a missed application. Do not apply more often or for longer than prescribed.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Redness of skin
- Feeling of warmth on skin
- Peeling of skin
- Slight stinging
- Darkening or lightening of treated areas
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Excessive irritation
- Severe burning
- Skin becomes very sensitive to light
Important Warnings
There are several important safety considerations when using Retrieve that you should discuss with your healthcare provider.
Who Should Not Take Retrieve
Do not use Retrieve if you are allergic to tretinoin, isotretinoin, vitamin A, or any ingredients in the product. Do not use if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if you have sunburn (delay use until fully recovered), other skin diseases like eczema (delay use until cleared or use with caution), sensitive skin, or if you take any other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not use Retrieve if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Stop immediately if you become pregnant and see your doctor. Tell your doctor if breastfeeding, as it’s unknown if Retrieve passes into breast milk.
Pregnancy Warning: Retrieve must not be used during pregnancy. Stop use immediately if you become pregnant and contact your doctor.
Drug Interactions
Several medications and products can interfere with Retrieve or increase your risk of side effects.
Important: Do not mix Retrieve with other preparations as they may prevent it from working properly.
- Acne medications and skin preparations
- Skin preparations with peeling agents (resorcinol, sulfur, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide)
- Vitamin A-containing skin preparations
- Sun-sensitivity medications (some antibiotics, diuretics, antipsychotic medicines)
- Cosmetics, perfumes, or astringents with high alcohol, spices, lime, or menthol
- Abrasive powders, scrubbing agents, soaps, shampoos, or cleansers
Sun Protection & Precautions
Special care must be taken to protect your skin while using Retrieve, as it can make your skin more sensitive.
Sun Protection
Your skin will be more prone to sunburn while using Retrieve. Always wear protective clothing and apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen when outdoors. Reapply sunscreen regularly and avoid excessive sunlight or sunlamp use.
Environmental Precautions
Strong wind and dry air may cause skin discomfort. Apply moisturizer or emollient if this occurs and check with your doctor about suitable wind protection if you notice unusual rash or redness.
Cosmetic Use
Check with your doctor about which cosmetics or perfumed toiletries you can use. Wash off any cosmetics from affected areas before applying Retrieve. Avoid harsh soaps or exfoliants – use mild, bland soap or soap-free cleansers.
Storage
Store Retrieve in a cool, dry place where the temperature stays below 25°C. Keep it away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near a sink, in the car, or on window sills. Keep out of reach of children. Take any unwanted or expired medicine to a pharmacy for safe disposal.
Overdose Information
If you apply too much Retrieve, remove any excess cream. Do not swallow this medicine. If you or someone else accidentally swallows Retrieve, seek urgent medical attention immediately. Call the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 in Australia, contact your doctor, or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your doctor will assess how your skin responds to treatment at your next visit and decide on the best course of treatment according to your skin condition and response. This may change from time to time depending on your medical condition.
Do not apply other skin preparations on top of your nightly Retrieve application. However, suitable sunscreens and moisturizers may be used during the day. Do not use skin treatments like peels or medicated dressings on the same areas unless your doctor tells you to.
If you experience redness or irritation, check with your doctor. If excessive skin reactions occur, your doctor may adjust the application to alternate nights or temporarily discontinue treatment.
Your skin will be more sensitive to sunlight while using Retrieve. Always wear protective clothing and apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen when outdoors. Avoid excessive sunlight or sunlamp use as your skin may be more prone to sunburn.
Do not apply Retrieve to your eyes, around eyelids, mouth, lips, mucosa, or angles of the nose. Only use on intact skin and avoid contact with open wounds.
If you miss your usual application time, apply the medicine when you remember and then continue with your normal schedule. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never apply a double dose.
No, do not use Retrieve if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Stop using immediately if you become pregnant and see your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding as it’s unknown if Retrieve passes into breast milk.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.