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VERIFIED CONTENTAuthor: Roman Wodowski

Retinol (retinol palmitate; Retinoli palmitas) is a long-chain alcohol, more recognizable as the active form of vitamin A, essential for the visual process (it is a component of rhodopsin), as well as for the growth, development and maintenance of normal functions of the epithelium. The latter properties make it a key ingredient in anti-aging (anti-aging) cosmetics. When applied to the skin, it removes exfoliation and cracks in the epidermis as a result of the keratolytic effect, and also supports regenerative processes.

Indications for the use of retinol

  • Prevention and treatment of vitamin A deficiency, leading to twilight amblyopia, keratitis or xerophthalmia (a disease symptom involving the drying out of the conjunctiva, cornea, and even the entire eye).
  • Supplementing the diet in conditions where an increased need for vitamin A may occur, such as diarrhea, gastrectomy, hyperthyroidism, chronic infections, gastrointestinal diseases (celiac disease, Crohn's disease), absorption disorders associated with pancreatic insufficiency, severe protein deficiency.
  • Supportive treatment in skin diseases related to vitamin A deficiency. Ointments of this composition are recommended for use in epidermal defects and minor skin lesions, in order to protect the skin against the adverse effects of weather conditions (wind, frost), including after minor frostbites.

Available preparations

The drug is available in the form of flexible capsules, oral fluid, as well as eye and skin ointments.

Contraindications to the use of retinol

The main contraindications are hypersensitivity to vitamin A and hypervitaminosis A (excess vitamin A). It is also not allowed to use large doses in:

  • severe hypertension,
  • kidney and liver diseases,
  • alcoholism,
  • glaucoma
  • and myasthenia gravis.

Particular care should be taken during concomitant administration with other drugs containing vitamin A due to the possibility of overdosing.

Retinol side effects

In principle, they do not occur when administered in recommended doses. Taking vitamin A in higher doses may lead to the development of hypervitaminosis A.

They canthen occur:

  • dizziness and headaches,
  • irritability,
  • anorexia,
  • hair loss,
  • dry skin,
  • vomiting,
  • stomach pains,
  • anemia,
  • increased blood calcium levels
  • and bone and joint pain.

Interaction with other medicinal products

  • Vitamin A absorption may be impaired in the case of concomitant use of cholestyramine, colestipol, orally administered neomycin,
  • Oral contraceptives increase the concentration of vitamin A in the plasma. Using vitamin A in parallel with other retinoids may lead to increased toxicity,
  • High doses of vitamin A, over 50,000 IU, in combination with tetracycline, may cause intracranial hypertension.

Effects on the ability to drive and use machines

Retinol has no influence on the ability to drive and use machines.

Effects on pregnancy or lactation

Avoid using excessive doses of vitamin A due to its potential damaging effects.

Vitamin A must not be used in doses exceeding 6,000 IU / day during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Storage

Store below 25 degrees Celsius. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Protect from light.

Vitamin A deficiency symptoms

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