Bexarotene Gel

What is this medication?

BEXAROTENE (bexs AIR oh teen) treats skin sores caused by lymphoma. It is prescribed when other medications do not work well enough or cannot be tolerated. It works by slowing down the growth of cancer cells. It belongs to a group of medications called retinoids.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Targretin

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• An unusual or allergic reaction to bexarotene, vitamin A, other vitamin A analogs or retinoids, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for application to lesions only. Do not apply the gel on or near your eyes, nose, mouth, lips, vagina, tip of penis, rectum, or anus. Wash your hands before and after applying the gel. Follow the instructions on the prescription label. Place a generous coating of gel over the entire surface of each lesion. You should not apply the gel to the healthy skin around the lesion. Proper application should leave some gel visible on the surface of the lesion. Allow 5 to 10 minutes for the gel to dry before covering the treated areas with clothing. If you apply this medication after your shower or bath, you should wait 20 minutes before applying the gel. You should avoid bathing, showering, or swimming for at least 3 hours after applying this medication.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

This medication may also interact with the following:

• DEET (N,N diethyl-m-toluamide)-containing insect repellents
• Vitamins and other supplements containing vitamin A

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Talk to your care team if you wish to become pregnant or think you might be pregnant. This medication can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy and for 1 month after stopping it. Females must have 2 negative pregnancy tests before starting this medication and one each month during treatment, even if not sexually active. Two reliable forms of contraception for 1 month before, during, and for 1 month after stopping this medication is recommended. Progestin hormones may not work as well while you are taking this medication. If you become pregnant, miss a menstrual cycle, or stop using contraception, stop taking this medication. Call your care team. Severe birth defects may occur even if just 1 dose is taken. Breast-feeding while taking this medication or for 1 month after stopping treatment is not recommended.

Males who get this medication must use a condom during sex with females who can get pregnant. If you get a woman pregnant, there is potential for serious harm to an unborn child. You will need to continue wearing a condom for 1 month after stopping the medication. Tell your care team right away if you think your partner might be pregnant.

This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Headache
• Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
• Sensitivity to light

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep away from heat or flame. Protect from humidity. Get rid of any unused gel after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.