Tretinoin while trying to get pregnant

Question

Hi,I have started using Tretinoin since past 3 days and I am trying to get pregnant and also last 3 days were my fertile period.Would this have already caused harm?Please revert.ThanksAvneet

Jennifer Greer, MD · Answer

Topical tretinoin is a pregnancy class C medication. This means that using the medication is only recommended if the benefit of use outweighs the risk. For a cosmetic treatment like tretinoin, the safest course of action is to stop using the medication if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. If you have recently discovered you are pregnant, stop using topical tretinoin as soon as you find out. The studies that showed that tretinoin could cause birth defects were high doses of medication given orally to rats. No studies have been done on humans, and only very little tretinoin is absorbed into the bloodstream when the medication is applied to the skin. So using tretinoin for a short time while pregnant is not something I would necessarily worry about, though it's always safest to check with your Ob.

Nissan Pilest, MD · Answer

Unfortunately is not recommended to use Tretinion while trying to conceive. An alternative would be to try Azelaic Acid.
Azelaic Acid is a brightening component found in grains like wheat, rye and barley. It leaves your normal skin alone while targeting abnormal melanocytes, helps brighten the skin. It is safe to use through-out your pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
  
Always Discuss this with your OBGYN prior to starting any new topical.

Sally Booth, MD · Answer

In my opinion, I would discontinue the use of Tretinoin while attempting to get pregnant, while pregnant, and if you decide to breastfeed.  Topical Tretinoin has been assigned as a Category C medication during pregnancy by the FDA. There are no controlled data on human pregnancy and the use of topical Tretinoin during pregnancy.  However, there have been reports of possible birth defects related to topical Tretinoin use.  Retinoids are a form of Vitamin A and high doses of Vitamin A during pregnancy can be harmful to an unborn child. Some topical ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin and should be avoided during pregnancy and topical Tretinoin is one of them.  I would also avoid topical salicylic acid during pregnancy. I would consult with your prescribing physician and advise them that you are attempting to get pregnant and request an alternative.  I would also consult with your OB/GYN and ask what they recommend you can use while attempting to get pregnant, during pregnancy, and during breastfeeding.  I hope this helps.

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