Bexarotene Topical Gel

Brands: Targretin

Uses

For treating cancer.

Instructions

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Clean and dry the area to be treated before applying the medicine.

Apply the medicine to the affected area.

Apply a thick layer of medicine to the area. Do not rub into the skin.

Wait 20 minutes after you bathe or shower before applying medicine.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

This medicine should only be used on the skin.

Do not apply other lotions, creams or gels to the same place you apply this medicine.

Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash the medicine off your fingers after applying it.

Avoid prolonged or excessive sunlight exposure. Use sunscreen lotion with SPF 15 or higher.

Try not to get the medicine on normal-looking skin.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Wash your hands after using this medicine unless your hands are part of the area being treated.

Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after handling the medicine.

The area should be covered by clothing.

Allow treated area to completely dry (about 10 minutes) before covering with clothing.

Do not shower, bathe, or swim for at least 3 hours after applying the medicine.

Avoid long exposure to extreme weather such as wind, cold, or the sun.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

This medicine is flammable. Do not use it near heaters, open flame or while smoking. Do not crush, puncture, or burn container.

Do not take the medicine more than four times during 24 hours.

Cautions

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

This medicine can cause birth defects. Speak with your doctor about birth control methods that should be used while on this medicine.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 1 month after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Female patients of childbearing age should have monthly pregnancy tests during treatment to make sure they are not pregnant.

Men with a pregnant partner must wear a condom during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 1 month after stopping to prevent harm to the developing baby.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Seek medical attention if you see any signs of a serious infection. These signs include pain, increasing redness or pus where this medicine is being used.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• burning or stinging
• dry skin
• itching
• skin irritation where medicine is applied

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• blistering or peeling of the skin

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Extra

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice. There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist. The display and use of this drug information is subject to Terms of Use. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.