Acitretin is used in the treatment of psoriasis.

Researchers don't know how exactly Acitretin works in psoriasis.

Dry lips, Dryness in mouth, Dry nose, Conjunctivitis, Skin peeling, Visual disturbance

• It is advisable to take this medication at the same time every day after a meal, preferably with milk or fatty food.
• It is necessary to inform your doctor if you have liver/kidney disease or suffer from high levels of cholesterol (hyperlipidemia).
• Do not donate blood if you are on this therapy and until 3 years after stopping this therapy. Women of child-bearing age should not receive blood from any person who is on this therapy.
• If you suffer from diabetes, the blood sugar levels should be checked often if you take acitretin.
• Do not drink alcohol while on this therapy and for 2 months after stopping this therapy as it would increase the risk of side effects.
• Do not wear lenses or go out in strong sunlight while on this therapy.
• Inform your doctor immediately if you develop bone, joint or muscle pain or have troubles with moving.
• Women of child-bearing age, if on acitretin therapy, should practice 2 methods of contraception; and be sure to tell your doctor the medications that you use, and the doctor will tell you which methods are acceptable. 
• You will need to take pregnancy tests regularly if you are on treatment with acitretin and for at least 3 years after you stop taking acitretin.

Ques. Q. Is Acitretin a steroid?
No Acitretin is not a steroid

Ques. Q. Is it safe?
It is safe when used at the recommended dose and duration as advised by the doctor

Ques. Q. What is Acitretin?
Acitretin belongs to a class of medications called retinoids.It is used in the treatment of serious skin disorders such as severe psoriasis (dry, scaly, wax-like skin rash). It is also used to treat keratin deposition on skin (ichthyosis), skin rash (pityriasis) or small elevations of skin and mucosa (lichen ruber)

Ques. Q. Is it effective?
It is effective when used at the recommended dose and duration as advised by the doctor

Ques. Q. Can I take paracetamol or ibuprofen with acitretin?
There is no known adverse effect of taking paracetamol or ibuprofen with acitretin. Please follow the advice of your doctor on the same

Ques. Q. Does Acitretin cause weight gain or affect sperm?
No there are no known effects of Acitretin on weight gain and sperms. Please consult your doctor immediately if any side effects are observed while on this therapy

Ques. Q. How fast does Acitretin work and how long is it available in the body?
Acitretin may seem to worsen symptoms at the start but should be effective during the course of the therapy. Continue to use as per doctor's recommendations. Acitretin should be cleared from the body within 36 days post the last dose.