Soritrin Capsules (Acitretin) | Used for Chronic Psoriasis and Skin Disorders
Soritrin Capsules (Acitretin) are a systemic retinoid indicated for the treatment of severe psoriasis and other skin disorders of keratinization in adults. They work by normalizing skin cell growth and reducing inflammation.
Product Overview
Soritrin Capsules contain Acitretin, a systemic retinoid that is a synthetic aromatic analog of Vitamin A. Soritrin Capsules (Acitretin) are oral retinoid medicines used to treat severe psoriasis and other chronic skin disorders. It is specifically utilized for the treatment of severe, recalcitrant dermatological conditions where other therapies have failed. Soritrin works by modulating the growth and development of skin cells, effectively normalizing the rapid cell turnover that characterizes diseases like psoriasis. Due to its systemic nature and high potency, this medication is typically reserved for extensive or disabling skin disorders that cover a large surface area of the body.
Product Composition
- Active Ingredient: Acitretin (commonly available in 25 mg strengths)
- Fillers: Microcrystalline Cellulose and Maltodextrin
- Antioxidant: Sodium Ascorbate to maintain the stability of the retinoid
- Lubricant: Magnesium Stearate
- Capsule Shell: Gelatin, Titanium Dioxide, and edible coloring agents (such as Iron Oxide)
- Solubilizing Agents: Polysorbates or medium-chain triglycerides to aid in the absorption of the fat-soluble active ingredient
Product Specification
| Feature | Details |
| Drug Class | Systemic Retinoid (Second-Generation) |
| Pharmaceutical Form | Hard Gelatin Capsule |
| Primary Indication | Severe Psoriasis and Keratinization Disorders |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (Processed by the liver) |
| Half-life | Long-term elimination (Terminal half-life of approx. 50 hours) |
| Strength | 25 mg |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15°C to 30°C); protect from light and moisture |
Mechanism of Action
- Cell Differentiation Regulation: Acitretin binds to specific nuclear receptors (RARs) in skin cells, directing them to differentiate normally rather than multiplying at an accelerated rate.
- Inhibition of Hyperproliferation: It effectively slows down the excessive production of keratinocytes, which prevents the formation of thick, scaly plaques on the skin surface.
- Anti-inflammatory Effect: The medication reduces the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the skin layers, decreasing the redness and swelling associated with severe skin conditions.
- Keratinization Normalization: It corrects the abnormal hardening of skin cells (keratinization), which is essential for treating disorders like Ichthyosis.
- Sebum Modulation: While primarily used for psoriasis, its retinoid action also helps in reducing the activity of sebaceous glands in certain conditions.
Key Benefits
- Effective for Resistant Cases: Provides a therapeutic solution for patients who do not respond to topical treatments or UV light therapy.
- Comprehensive Skin Clearance: Capable of clearing extensive plaques and pustules across the entire body, including difficult areas like the palms and soles.
- Long-Term Remission: Many patients experience extended periods of clear skin even after the treatment course is completed.
- Alternative to Immunosuppressants: Offers a different pathway of treatment for those who cannot use traditional immunosuppressive drugs.
- Targeted Action on Scales: Specifically helps in thinning the thick, silver scales of psoriasis, making the skin texture smoother and more comfortable.
Precautions
General Precautions
| Condition | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Strong oral retinoid | Use only under strict dermatologist supervision |
| Pregnancy | Strictly contraindicated (high risk of severe birth defects) |
| Breastfeeding | Not recommended |
| Liver disease | Use with caution; regular liver function monitoring required |
| High cholesterol/triglycerides | May increase lipid levels |
| Alcohol use | Must be strictly avoided or minimized as advised by doctor |
Reproductive Safety Precautions
- Women of childbearing potential must use reliable contraception
- Pregnancy must be avoided during treatment and for a period after stopping (as advised by doctor)
- Regular pregnancy testing may be required during therapy
- Do not donate blood during treatment and for some time after stopping
Administration Precautions
- Take exactly as prescribed with food for better absorption
- Do not self-adjust dose or stop suddenly without medical advice
- Regular blood tests (liver, lipid profile) are essential
- Follow all follow-up appointments strictly
Skin & Body Care Precautions
- Avoid excessive sun exposure; use sunscreen and protective clothing
- Skin may become dry—use moisturizers and lip balm regularly
- Avoid waxing, aggressive peels, or laser treatments during therapy
- Avoid contact lens overuse if eye dryness occurs
Drug & Lifestyle Precautions
- Avoid vitamin A supplements (risk of toxicity)
- Avoid alcohol due to increased liver burden
- Inform doctor about all medicines being used
- Avoid donating blood during and after treatment period
When to Consult a Doctor
- If severe dryness, headache, or vision changes occur
- If mood changes or depression symptoms develop
- If abdominal pain, jaundice, or unusual fatigue occurs
- If side effects become severe or persistent
- If any signs of pregnancy occur during treatment
Usage
Dosage
The dosage of Soritrin Capsules is highly individualized based on the patient’s clinical response and tolerability. The initial adult dose is typically 25 mg to 30 mg per day, taken for approximately 2 to 4 weeks. After this initial phase, a maintenance dose between 25 mg and 50 mg may be prescribed depending on the clearing of the skin. Treatment is generally continued until the lesions have sufficiently resolved. Due to its long-term presence in the body, specific precautions regarding blood donation and pregnancy must be strictly followed for several years after the final dose.
Administration
| Step | Action |
| Timing | Take the capsule once daily, preferably with your main meal |
| Absorption | Ensure the meal contains some dietary fat to significantly enhance the absorption of the medication |
| Consistency | Swallow the capsule whole with water or milk; do not chew or break the shell |
| Alcohol Avoidance | Strictly avoid alcohol during treatment and for 2 months after stopping, as it can convert Acitretin into a longer-lasting substance in the body |
| Blood Monitoring | Regular liver function and cholesterol tests are mandatory throughout the treatment period |
| Sun Protection | Use high-factor sunscreen and protective clothing, as systemic retinoids increase sensitivity to UV light |
Uses
Severe Psoriasis: Treats extensive and resistant forms of psoriasis, including plaque psoriasis that covers large areas of the body.
Pustular Psoriasis: Manages localized or generalized forms characterized by white pustules surrounded by red skin.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis: Addresses severe, inflammatory psoriasis that causes a peeling rash across the entire body surface.
Ichthyosis: Used to manage congenital conditions where the skin becomes thick, hard, and fish-like in appearance.
Darier’s Disease: Treats this rare genetic disorder by normalizing the way skin cells develop and stick together.
Lichen Planus: Prescribed for severe cases of this inflammatory condition affecting the skin and mucous membranes.
Palmoplantar Keratoderma: Helps thin and soften the severe thickening of the skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Dry skin and lips
- Chapped lips (cheilitis)
- Dry eyes, nose, or mouth
- Hair thinning or mild hair loss
- Itching or skin irritation
- Increased skin sensitivity to sunlight
Less Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Nosebleeds due to dryness
- Flaking or peeling of skin
- Changes in nail texture
- Temporary worsening of skin symptoms at start of treatment
Serious Side Effects
| Side Effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Liver toxicity | Elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, fatigue |
| Lipid abnormalities | Increased cholesterol or triglycerides |
| Severe mood changes | Depression, anxiety, or behavioral changes (rare but important) |
| Vision problems | Blurred vision or night vision difficulty |
| Bone changes (long-term use) | Bone pain or reduced bone density |
| Severe allergic reaction | Rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing |
Skin and Body Effects
- Marked dryness of skin and mucous membranes
- Increased risk of sunburn due to photosensitivity
- Fragile skin prone to irritation or cracking
- Possible delayed wound healing
When to Stop Use and Consult a Doctor
- If severe dryness, pain, or irritation occurs
- If signs of liver problems appear (yellowing skin/eyes, dark urine)
- If mood changes or depression symptoms develop
- If vision changes or severe headache occur
- If side effects become persistent or severe
FAQs
Q: What is Soritrin Capsule used for?
A: It is primarily used to treat severe resistant psoriasis including plaque psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis in adults who have not responded adequately to other psoriasis treatments. It helps reduce the redness, scaling, swelling, and thick plaques associated with severe psoriasis.
Q: How does Soritrin Capsule work?
A: Acitretin belongs to the retinoid class of medicines. It works by binding to nuclear receptors in the skin cells that regulate gene transcription. This induces normal keratinocyte differentiation, reduces epidermal hyperplasia, decreases inflammation, and slows down the speed of abnormal skin cell growth, resulting in reduced scaling, redness, and plaque formation.
Q: How should I take Soritrin Capsule?
A: Take Soritrin Capsule exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Take it with food or immediately after a meal at the same time every day, as food improves absorption. Do not take more than the prescribed dose and never miss a dose as it may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: Visible improvement in psoriasis symptoms may be noticed within a few weeks of starting treatment. However, full therapeutic benefit may take 2 to 3 months of consistent use. Soritrin Capsule is a long-term treatment and should be continued as directed by your doctor even if symptoms improve.
Q: Is Soritrin Capsule a cure for psoriasis?
A: No. Soritrin Capsule is not a cure for psoriasis. It helps control and manage the symptoms of severe psoriasis during treatment. Patients may relapse after stopping the medication. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing treatment.
Q: Is Soritrin Capsule safe for children?
A: Soritrin Capsule is generally not recommended for children and adolescents below 18 years of age. Special care and strict medical supervision are required if it is considered for use in younger patients. Always consult a specialist before use in children.
Q: Can it be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: No. Soritrin Capsule is absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy as it causes severe birth defects. Women of childbearing age must use two effective forms of contraception for at least one month before, during, and for three years after stopping treatment. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding.
Q: Can Soritrin Capsule affect cholesterol levels?
A: Yes. Acitretin may increase the levels of fats such as cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. This may increase the risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke. Regular blood tests to monitor lipid levels are required before and during treatment. Always keep all appointments for blood work as directed by your doctor.
Q: Can Soritrin Capsule cause liver damage?
A: Yes. Liver damage may occur when taking Acitretin. Regular liver function tests are required before and during treatment. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue, or pain in the upper right abdomen.
Q: Does Soritrin Capsule make skin sensitive to sunlight?
A: Yes. Acitretin increases skin sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure during treatment. Wear protective clothing and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher when going outdoors. Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps during treatment.
Q: Can Soritrin Capsule interact with other medicines?
A: Soritrin Capsule may interact with Vitamin A supplements, other retinoids such as Isotretinoin and Tretinoin, Tetracycline antibiotics, Methotrexate, blood-thinning medicines such as Warfarin, hormonal contraceptives, and the herbal supplement St. John's Wort. Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking.
Q: Can I consume alcohol while taking Soritrin Capsule?
A: No. Avoid consuming alcohol during treatment with Soritrin Capsule and for two months after stopping treatment. Alcohol may interact with Acitretin and significantly increase the duration it remains in the body, increasing the risk of serious side effects.
Interactions
Drug Interactions
| Medicine Type | Interaction Details |
|---|---|
| Vitamin A supplements | Can cause toxicity when combined with Acitretin |
| Tetracycline antibiotics | Increased risk of raised intracranial pressure (headache, vision issues) |
| Methotrexate | May increase risk of liver toxicity |
| Phenytoin | May alter drug levels and increase side effects risk |
| Alcohol | Can convert Acitretin into a long-lasting compound, increasing toxicity risk |
| Other retinoids | Increased risk of severe side effects and toxicity |
Food Interactions
- Take with food for better absorption
- Avoid high-dose vitamin A-rich supplements or fortified products
- Alcohol should be strictly avoided or minimized as advised
Medical Condition Interactions
- Liver disease: risk of worsening liver function
- High cholesterol/triglycerides: may significantly increase lipid levels
- Pregnancy: strictly contraindicated due to high risk of birth defects
- Depression or psychiatric history: may worsen mood changes in rare cases
- Bone disorders: long-term use may affect bone health
Lifestyle Interactions
- Avoid alcohol during and after treatment as advised by doctor
- Do not donate blood during treatment and for a specified period after stopping
- Avoid cosmetic skin procedures (laser, waxing, chemical peels)
- Maintain regular blood tests for liver and lipid monitoring
When to Seek Advice
- If using other systemic medications for chronic conditions
- If experiencing severe headache, vision changes, or mood disturbances
- If signs of liver problems (yellowing of skin/eyes, fatigue) occur
- If unusual side effects or intolerance develops during therapy
| Manufacturer | : | Healing Pharma |
| Trade Name | : | Soriatane |
| Generic Search | : | Acitretin |
| Strength | : | 25mg |
Latest Products
