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Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin)

Stiefel, a GSK Company · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) is a Retinoid Small molecule drug developed by Stiefel, a GSK Company. It is currently FDA-approved for Acne vulgaris, Photoaging and fine wrinkles, Acute promyelocytic leukemia (systemic formulation).

Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that binds to retinoic acid receptors in skin cells to promote cell turnover, reduce sebum production, and normalize keratinization.

Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that binds to retinoic acid receptors in skin cells to promote cell turnover, reduce sebum production, and normalize keratinization. Used for Acne vulgaris, Photoaging and fine wrinkles, Acute promyelocytic leukemia (systemic formulation).

At a glance

Generic nameTretinoin Gel (tretinoin)
SponsorStiefel, a GSK Company
Drug classRetinoid
TargetRetinoic acid receptors (RAR-α, RAR-β, RAR-γ)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaDermatology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Tretinoin acts as a ligand for nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RAR-α, RAR-β, RAR-γ), which regulate gene expression involved in cell differentiation and proliferation. By increasing epidermal cell turnover and reducing comedone formation, it addresses the pathogenic mechanisms of acne. It also stimulates collagen production and reduces fine wrinkles, making it effective for photoaging.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

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Frequently asked questions about Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin)

What is Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin)?

Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) is a Retinoid drug developed by Stiefel, a GSK Company, indicated for Acne vulgaris, Photoaging and fine wrinkles, Acute promyelocytic leukemia (systemic formulation).

How does Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) work?

Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that binds to retinoic acid receptors in skin cells to promote cell turnover, reduce sebum production, and normalize keratinization.

What is Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) used for?

Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) is indicated for Acne vulgaris, Photoaging and fine wrinkles, Acute promyelocytic leukemia (systemic formulation).

Who makes Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin)?

Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) is developed and marketed by Stiefel, a GSK Company (see full Stiefel, a GSK Company pipeline at /company/stiefel-a-gsk-company).

What drug class is Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) in?

Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) belongs to the Retinoid class. See all Retinoid drugs at /class/retinoid.

What development phase is Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) in?

Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin)?

Common side effects of Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) include Erythema and irritation, Peeling and dryness, Photosensitivity, Burning or stinging, Retinization (initial worsening of acne).

What does Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) target?

Tretinoin Gel (tretinoin) targets Retinoic acid receptors (RAR-α, RAR-β, RAR-γ) and is a Retinoid.

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