Neotigason

Neotigason is a brand-name systemic retinoid medication whose active ingredient is etretinate. It has been used to treat severe psoriasis and certain disorders of keratinization, such as ichthyosis and palmoplantar keratoderma, typically when other therapies have failed or are unsuitable.

Etretinate works by modulating skin cell growth and differentiation through retinoic acid receptors, helping to normalize abnormal epidermal turnover. As a systemic treatment, it is taken orally and requires careful medical supervision, with dosing tailored to the patient’s condition and response.

Important cautions apply. Etretinate is highly teratogenic, and pregnancy must be avoided during therapy and for an extended period after stopping treatment due to the drug’s persistence in the body. Women of childbearing potential need reliable contraception and thorough counseling. Contraindications also include significant liver disease and other conditions where retinoids are not advisable. Because of potential interactions and metabolic effects, liver function tests and lipid profiles are typically monitored during treatment.

Common adverse effects are dose-related and reflect the overall safety profile of retinoids. These can include dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, cheilitis (lip inflammation), hair thinning, and nail changes. Hepatic enzyme elevations, lipid increases, phototoxicity (sensitivity to sunlight), and joint or bone discomfort may occur. Patients may also experience mood changes or other systemic effects, though these are less common.

Due to its long persistence in adipose tissue, careful consideration is given to stopping therapy and to planning any pregnancies. Neotigason requires prescriber expertise and adherence to safety guidelines for retinoids.