Targretin (topical)
Generic name:bexarotene (topical) [ bex-AR-oh-teen ]
Drug class:Miscellaneous topical agents
What is Targretin topical?
Targretin (for the skin) is used to treat skin lesions caused by a rare type of cancer called cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. This medicine is usually given after other treatments have failed.
Targretin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Targretin can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects if the mother or the father is using Targretin. Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant.
Both men and women using Targretin should use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy, beginning 1 month before starting and continuing until at least 1 month after stopping treatment.
Stop using this medicine and tell your doctor right away if you stop using birth control, if you miss a menstrual period, or if a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using Targretin.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Targretin if you are allergic to it, or if you are pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
liver disease; or
kidney disease.
Targretin can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects if the mother or the father is using this medicine.
If you are a man, use condoms during sex if your partner is pregnant or is able to get pregnant. Keep using condoms while using Targretin and for at least 1 month after your last dose.
If you are a woman, do not use Targretin if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You must have a negative pregnancy test 7 days before you start using this medicine and once per month during treatment.
You should start using Targretin on the 2nd or 3rd day of a normal menstrual period.
Use 2 effective forms of birth control beginning 1 month before you start using Targretin, and continuing until at least 1 month after your last dose.
At least one of your forms of birth control should be non-hormonal such as a condom, cervical cap, contraceptive sponge, IUD, or diaphragm with spermicide.
Stop using Targretin and tell your doctor right away if you stop using birth control, or if you miss a menstrual period.
If a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using Targretin, stop using the medicine and tell your doctor right away.
You should not breastfeed while you are using Targretin.
