Motretinide

Products

Motretinide was commercially available as a cream in many countries and had been approved since 1981 (Tasmaderm). Unlike other topical retinoids such as isotretinoin (Roaccutane) or tretinoin (Retin-A), it was available without a physician’s prescription. It was discontinued in 2015.

Structure and properties

Motretinide (C23H31NO2, Mr = 353.5 g/mol) is an aromatic derivative of the vitamin A acid tretinoin.

Effects

Motretinide (ATC D10AD05) inhibits the formation of new comedones and is anti-inflammatory.

Indications

For the treatment of mild acne and for maintenance therapy after peel treatment has been performed.

Dosage

According to the professional information. The drug is applied to the affected areas of the skin in the morning and evening. If skin redness occurs, it may be reduced to once-daily administration.

Contraindications

Motretinide is contraindicated in hypersensitivity. It should not be used before or during pregnancy because fertility-damaging effects, as with other retinoids, cannot be ruled out. Full precautions can be found in the drug label.

Interactions

No drug-drug interactions have been reported to date.

Adverse effects

Possible adverse effects include transient skin irritation and rarely worsening of the disease.