What is the brand name for Tretinoin?
The brand name for Tretinoin is Retin-A.
PTCE Top 200 · #197
Tretinoin
Retin-A
Tretinoin is the generic name for the brand-name drug Retin-A. It is a topical retinoid used to treat acne, photoaging. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Tretinoin ranks #197 and is one of the most frequently tested dermatology medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Tretinoin |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Retin-A |
| Drug class | Topical retinoid |
| Class group | Dermatology |
| Common use | acne, photoaging |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Tretinoin used for?
Topical treatment of acne vulgaris; also used for photoaging and other dermatologic conditions (product-specific).
What drug class is Tretinoin?
Tretinoin is a Topical retinoid in the Dermatology group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Tretinoin
- arrow_rightSkin irritation
- arrow_rightRedness
- arrow_rightPeeling
- arrow_rightDryness
- arrow_rightBurning/stinging
- arrow_rightPhotosensitivity
Major interactions
- arrow_rightConcurrent topical irritants (benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, alcohol-based products) can increase irritation
- arrow_rightPhotosensitizing agents and excessive sun exposure increase sunburn risk
- arrow_rightIf used with benzoyl peroxide, separate application times to reduce tretinoin degradation/irritation
Is Tretinoin a controlled substance?
No. Tretinoin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Tretinoin (PTCE mnemonic)
RETIN-A RETrains skin — tretinoin (vitamin A acid) for acne/aging. APPLY AT NIGHT (UV-degraded); initial purge + dryness/redness; SUNSCREEN MANDATORY; avoid in pregnancy (topical tretinoin was category C; oral retinoids are X).
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Tretinoin thins the skin's sun tolerance — apply at NIGHT with daytime sunscreen counseling — and never confuse topical tretinoin with oral isotretinoin and its iPLEDGE program.
Tretinoin FAQ
What is Tretinoin used for?
Tretinoin is used to treat acne, photoaging. Topical treatment of acne vulgaris; also used for photoaging and other dermatologic conditions (product-specific).
What drug class is Tretinoin?
Tretinoin is a Topical retinoid (Dermatology group).
Is Tretinoin a controlled substance?
No. Tretinoin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Dermatology group
Drill Tretinoin the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).