Acitretin (trade name Soriatane®) is a second generation retinoid. It is taken orally, and is typically used for psoriasis.It is a metabolite of etretinate, which was used prior to the introduction of acitretin. Etretinate was discontinued because it had a narrow therapeutic index as well as a long elimination half-life (t1/2=120 days), making dosing difficult. In contrast, acitretin's half-life is approximately 2 days.
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Acitretin /ac·i·tret·in/ a second generation retinoid used in treatment of severe psoriasis. acitretin an active metabolite of etretinate, with [more]Acitretin - Community and Resources