Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
capsule
- 75mg
gel
- 1%
Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
300 mg/m² PO qDay with food; titrate based on response or toxicity; may increase to 400 mg/m²/day if no response after 8 weeks of therapy
Topical: Apply to lesions every other day for 1 week initially, THEN increase qWeek up to q6hr
Monitor: WBC, LFTs, lipids, thyroid function
Refractory Mycosis Fungoides/Sezary Syndrome (Off-label)
75-150 mg PO qDay in combination with PUVA; not to exceed 300 mg/day
Renal Impairment
Not studied; use caution
Hepatic Impairment
Not studied; use caution
Safety and efficacy not established
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (2)
- doravirine
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of doravirine by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Contraindicated. Coadministration of doravirine with a CYP3A inducer may decrease doravirine plasma concentrations and/or effects. Potential for loss of virologic response and possible resistance to doravirine.
- lonafarnib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of lonafarnib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Contraindicated. Lonafarnib is a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate. Coadministration with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers is contraindicated.
Serious - Use Alternative (25)
- aminolevulinic acid oral
aminolevulinic acid oral, bexarotene. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid administering other phototoxic drugs with aminolevulinic acid oral for 24 hr during perioperative period.
- aminolevulinic acid topical
bexarotene, aminolevulinic acid topical. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Each drug may increase the photosensitizing effect of the other.
- avapritinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of avapritinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- entrectinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of entrectinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- fedratinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of fedratinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Effect of coadministering a moderate CYP3A4 inducer with fedratinib has not been studied.
- finerenone
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of finerenone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- infigratinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of infigratinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- lefamulin
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of lefamulin by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid coadministration of lefamulin with strong or moderate CYP3A inducers unless the benefit outweighs risks. Monitor for reduced efficacy.
- lemborexant
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of lemborexant by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- lorlatinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of lorlatinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid use of lorlatinib with moderate CYP3A inducers. If unable to avoid, monitor ALT, AST, and bilirubin as recommended.
- lurbinectedin
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of lurbinectedin by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- methyl aminolevulinate
bexarotene, methyl aminolevulinate. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Each drug may increase the photosensitizing effect of the other.
- mobocertinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of mobocertinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- omadacycline
bexarotene increases toxicity of omadacycline by Mechanism: unknown. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Concomitant use of oral retinoids with tetracyclines may increase risk of pseudotumor cerebri/intracranial hypertension. .
- palifermin
palifermin increases toxicity of bexarotene by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Palifermin should not be administered within 24 hr before, during infusion of, or within 24 hr after administration of antineoplastic agents. Coadministration of palifermin within 24 hr of chemotherapy resulted in increased severity and duration of oral mucositis.
- pemigatinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of pemigatinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- pretomanid
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of pretomanid by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. CYP3A4 substrate. Avoid coadministration of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers.
- rimegepant
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of rimegepant by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- sarecycline
bexarotene increases toxicity of sarecycline by Mechanism: unknown. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Concomitant use of oral retinoids with tetracyclines may increase risk of pseudotumor cerebri/intracranial hypertension. .
- selumetinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of selumetinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- siponimod
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of siponimod by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration of siponimod with a drug that causes moderate CYP2C9 plus a moderate or strong CYP3A4 inducer is not recommended. Coadministration with moderate or strong CYP3A4 inducers alone is not recommended for patients with CYP2C9*1/*3 and*2/*3 genotype.
- tazemetostat
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of tazemetostat by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- voclosporin
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of voclosporin by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- voxelotor
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of voxelotor by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Voxelotor is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Avoid coadministration with moderate or strong CYP3A4 inducers. If unable to avoid coadministration, increase voxelotor dose (see Dosage Modifications).
- zanubrutinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of zanubrutinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
Monitor Closely (83)
- alpelisib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of alpelisib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- amobarbital
amobarbital will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- aprepitant
aprepitant will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Altered bexarotene serum concentrations may occur, leading to either an increased risk of bexarotene-related adverse reactions or a risk of decreased bexarotene efficacy.
- atazanavir
atazanavir will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- axitinib
bexarotene decreases levels of axitinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- bosentan
bosentan will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- butabarbital
butabarbital will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- carbamazepine
carbamazepine will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- chlorpropamide
bexarotene increases effects of chlorpropamide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- cholera vaccine
bexarotene decreases effects of cholera vaccine by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Immunosuppressive therapies, including irradiation, antimetabolites, alkylating agents, cytotoxic drugs and corticosteroids (used in greater than physiologic doses), may reduce the immune response to cholera vaccine.
- cimetidine
cimetidine will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clarithromycin
clarithromycin will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- conivaptan
conivaptan will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Upon completion or discontinuation of conivaptan, allow at least 7 days before initiating therapy with CYP3A4 substrates.
- cyclosporine
cyclosporine will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dasatinib
dasatinib will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dexamethasone
dexamethasone will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- diazepam intranasal
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of diazepam intranasal by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers may increase rate of diazepam elimination; therefore, efficacy of diazepam may be decreased.
- dienogest/estradiol valerate
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of dienogest/estradiol valerate by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Advise women to use alternative method of contraception or back-up method when moderate or weak enzyme inducer is used with combination contraceptives. Back-up contraception should be continued for 28 days after discontinuing medication to ensure contraceptive reliability.
- elagolix
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of elagolix by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- erdafitinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of erdafitinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. If a moderate CYP3A4 inducer must be coadministered, administer 8-mg/day dose initially, with potential to increase to 9 mg/day based on serum phosphate levels on Days 14-21 and tolerability. If a moderate CYP3A4 inducer must be coadministered after the initial dose increase period based on serum phosphate levels and tolerability, increase erdafitinib dose up to 9 mg. When a moderate inducer discontinued, continue erdafitinib at same dose, in absence of drug-related toxicity.
- erythromycin base
erythromycin base will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- erythromycin ethylsuccinate
erythromycin ethylsuccinate will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- erythromycin lactobionate
erythromycin lactobionate will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- erythromycin stearate
erythromycin stearate will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- eslicarbazepine acetate
eslicarbazepine acetate will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- etravirine
etravirine will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fluconazole
fluconazole will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fluvoxamine
fluvoxamine will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fosamprenavir
fosamprenavir will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- gemfibrozil
gemfibrozil increases levels of bexarotene by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- glimepiride
bexarotene increases effects of glimepiride by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- glipizide
bexarotene increases effects of glipizide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- glyburide
bexarotene increases effects of glyburide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- grapefruit
grapefruit will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- griseofulvin
griseofulvin will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ifosfamide
bexarotene increases toxicity of ifosfamide by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. CYP3A4 inducers may increase the metabolism of ifosfamide to its active alkylating metabolites. CYP3A4 inducers may increase the formation of the neurotoxic/nephrotoxic ifosfamide metabolite, chloroacetaldehyde. Closely monitor patients taking ifosfamide with CYP3A4 inducers for toxicities and consider dose adjustment.
- indinavir
indinavir will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- insulin regular human
bexarotene increases effects of insulin regular human by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- isavuconazonium sulfate
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of isavuconazonium sulfate by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- isoniazid
isoniazid will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- itraconazole
itraconazole will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ketoconazole
ketoconazole will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lapatinib
lapatinib will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- letermovir
letermovir increases levels of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- levamlodipine
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of levamlodipine by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. No information is available on the quantitative effects of CYP3A4 inducers on amlodipine. Closely monitor blood pressure when amlodipine is coadministered with CYP3A4 inducers.
- linagliptin
bexarotene will increase the level or effect of linagliptin by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Use of alternative treatments is strongly recommended when linagliptin is to be administered with a CYP3A4 inducer
- maraviroc
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of maraviroc by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nateglinide
bexarotene increases effects of nateglinide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- nefazodone
nefazodone will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nelfinavir
nelfinavir will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nevirapine
nevirapine will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nilotinib
nilotinib will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- oxcarbazepine
oxcarbazepine will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- pentobarbital
pentobarbital will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- phenobarbital
phenobarbital will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- phenytoin
phenytoin will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- pioglitazone
bexarotene increases effects of pioglitazone by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- ponesimod
ponesimod and bexarotene both increase immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Caution if coadministered because of additive immunosuppressive effects during such therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, consider the half-life and mode of action of these drugs to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.
- posaconazole
posaconazole will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- repaglinide
bexarotene increases effects of repaglinide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- ribociclib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of ribociclib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- rifabutin
rifabutin will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- rifampin
rifampin will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- rifapentine
rifapentine will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ripretinib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of ripretinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. If coadministration cannot be avoided, increase dosing frequency from recommended dose of 150 mg once daily to 150 mg twice daily during co-administration period; monitor for clinical response and tolerability
- ritonavir
ritonavir will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- rosiglitazone
bexarotene increases effects of rosiglitazone by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- saquinavir
saquinavir increases levels of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Potential for increased toxicity. Use alternatives if available. .
- saxagliptin
bexarotene increases effects of saxagliptin by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- siponimod
siponimod and bexarotene both increase immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Caution if coadministered because of additive immunosuppressive effects during such therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, consider the half-life and mode of action of these drugs to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.
- sitagliptin
bexarotene increases effects of sitagliptin by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- St John's Wort
St John's Wort will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- stiripentol
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of stiripentol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Monitor closely if stiripentol is coadministered with a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
- sufentanil SL
bexarotene decreases effects of sufentanil SL by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CYP3A4 inducers may decrease sufentanil levels and efficacy, possibly precipitating withdrawal syndrome in patients who have developed physical dependence to sufentanil. Discontinuation of concomitantly used CYP3A4 inducers may increase sufentanil plasma concentration.
- tinidazole
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of tinidazole by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tipranavir
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of tipranavir by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Use alternatives if available.
tipranavir increases levels of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Potential for increased toxicity. Use alternatives if available. . - tivozanib
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of tivozanib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tolazamide
bexarotene increases effects of tolazamide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- tolbutamide
bexarotene increases effects of tolbutamide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- ubrogepant
bexarotene will decrease the level or effect of ubrogepant by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Dose adjustment is recommended with concomitant use of ubrogepant and moderate and weak CYP3A4 inducers. (see Dosage Modifications)
- vildagliptin
bexarotene increases effects of vildagliptin by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Based on the mechanism of action, bexarotene capsules may increase the action of insulin enhancing agents, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia has not been associated with bexarotene monotherapy.
- vitamin A
bexarotene increases toxicity of vitamin A by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. (Vitamin A) Additive retinoid effects. Avoid consuming vitamin-A containing supplements in amounts exceeding FDA recommended daily allowance.
- voriconazole
voriconazole will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
Minor (9)
- artemether/lumefantrine
artemether/lumefantrine will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- darunavir
darunavir will increase the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- fosphenytoin
fosphenytoin will decrease the level or effect of bexarotene by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- insulin aspart
bexarotene increases effects of insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- insulin detemir
bexarotene increases effects of insulin detemir by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- insulin glargine
bexarotene increases effects of insulin glargine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- insulin glulisine
bexarotene increases effects of insulin glulisine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- insulin lispro
bexarotene increases effects of insulin lispro by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- insulin NPH
bexarotene increases effects of insulin NPH by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
Adverse Effects
>10%
Oral (CTCL trial)
- Peripheral edema (11-13%)
- Headache (30-42%), fever (5-17%), chills (10-13%), insomnia (5-11%)
- Exfoliative dermatitis (10-28%), rash (16-23%), alopecia (4-12%), dry skin (10-11%)
- Diarrhea (7-41%), nausea (8-16%), vomiting (4-13%), abdominal pain (4-11%)
- Bacterial infection (1-13%), flu syndrome (4-13%), infections (13-23%)
- Leukopenia (17-47%), anemia (6-25%), lactic dehydrogenase increased (7-13%), hypochromic anemia (4-13%)
- Hyperlipidemia (78-79%), hypercholesteremia (32-62%), hypothyroidism (29-52%)
- Back pain (2-11%)
Topical
- Rash (72%)
- Pruritus (36%)
- Pain (30%)
- Infection (18%)
- Contact dermatitis (14%)
- Headache (14%)
1-10%
Oral
- Hemorrhage
- Hypertension
- Hypothyroidism
- Heart failure
- Tachycardia
- Acne
- Depression
- Pustular rash
- Sunburn
- Pharyngitis
- Rhinitis
- Arthralgia
- Blephartis
- Corneal lesion
- Renal dysfunction
Topical
- Edema (10%)
- Hyperlipemia (10%)
- Asthenia (6%)
- Exfoliative dermatitis (6%)
- Leukopenia (6%), lymphadenopathy (6%), WBC changes (6%)
- Cough increased (6%), pharyngitis (6%)
- Sweating (6%)
Warnings
Black Box Warnings
Bexarotene is a retinoid
Retinoids are associated with birth control defects in humans and are contraindicated during pregnancy
Effective contraception must be in place 1 month before initiation of therapy, during therapy, and for at least 1 month after discontinuation of therapy
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to retinoids
Pregnancy (use 2 forms of contraception)
Cautions
Oral
- Suppresses TSH levels; may cause hypothyroidism; may require supplementatoin
- Neutropenia and leukopenia may occur
- May induce significant lipid abnormalities in a majority of patients
- ALT, AST, and bilirubin elevation reported
- Pancreatitis secondary to hypertriglyceridemia reported
- Photosensitivity and phototoxicity may occur
- Evaluate visual abnormalities experienced by patient
- Use caution in diabetes mellitus and hepatic impairment
Topical
- Do not use occlusive dressings with gel
- May induce significant lipid abnormalities; use caution in patients with hypertriglyceridemia
- May cause photosensitization
- Neutropenia and leukopenia may occur
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category: X
Lactation: It is not known whether bexarotene is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from bexarotene, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Retinoid X receptor activator, regulates genes that control cell differentiation; induces tumor regression
Pharmacokinetics
Half-Life: 7 hr
Peak Plasma Time: 2 hr
Protein Bound: >99%
Metabolism: Liver (CYP3A4)
Metabolites: 6- & 7- hydroxy- bexarotene, 6- & 7- oxo- bexarotene
Excretion: Feces (primarily); urine (<1%)
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| bexarotene oral - | 75 mg capsule |  | |
| bexarotene oral - | 75 mg capsule |  | |
| bexarotene oral - | 75 mg capsule |  | |
| bexarotene oral - | 75 mg capsule |  | |
| bexarotene oral - | 75 mg capsule |  | |
| Targretin oral - | 75 mg capsule | |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
bexarotene topical
BEXAROTENE GEL - TOPICAL
(bex-AR-oh-teen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Targretin
USES: Bexarotene is used to treat skin problems from a certain type of cancer (cutaneous T-cell lymphoma-CTCL). It works by slowing or stopping the growth of these cancer cells. Bexarotene belongs to a class of drugs called retinoids (drugs related to vitamin A).
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using bexarotene and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.This medication is for use on the skin only. Do not apply this medication into mucous membranes such as the eyes, nose, mouth, lips, vagina, tip of the penis, rectum, or anus. Avoid applying to healthy areas of skin because irritation or redness can occur.Wash your hands right away with soap and water before and after using this medication. Cover the affected skin area with a generous layer of gel. Allow the gel to dry for 5 to 10 minutes before covering the area with clothing. This medication is usually applied once every other day for the first week, then increased at weekly intervals to once a day, then twice a day, then 3 times a day, and then finally 4 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. If side effects occur, your doctor may direct you to apply this medication less often or temporarily stop use until the side effects lessen.Do not cover, bandage, or wrap the treated area unless your doctor directs you to do so. Wait at least 20 minutes after showering or bathing before applying this medication. Use a mild soap when washing the skin to reduce irritation. Avoid showering, bathing, or swimming for at least 3 hours after applying this medication.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. You may start to see some benefit as early as 4 weeks after starting treatment, but usually you will not get the full benefit until close to a year or more of use. Continue to use this medication and do not stop until your doctor directs you to do so.Since this drug is absorbed through the skin and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication. Learn proper technique for safe handling and disposal of this medicine and its container. Consult your pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Pain, redness, irritation, itching, or flaking of the skin may occur at the application site. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.Bexarotene can commonly cause a rash that is usually not serious. However, you may not be able to tell it apart from a rare rash that could be a sign of a severe reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop any rash.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using bexarotene, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to vitamin A-related drugs (other retinoids such as isotretinoin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems.This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.This medication must not be used during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away. To make sure that you are not pregnant, you should have a pregnancy test before you start treatment with bexarotene and every month while you are using this medication. Consult your doctor to discuss reliable forms of birth control. Use 2 effective forms of birth control together (or completely avoid sexual intercourse) for 1 month before treatment starts, during treatment, and for 1 month after you stop treatment. Males using this medication with partners who are pregnant or may become pregnant must use a condom during sexual activity during treatment and for at least 1 month after treatment ends.Since this drug is absorbed through the skin and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication.It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Due to the possible harm to the nursing infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.This drug should not be used with the following products because very serious interactions may occur: insect repellents that contain DEET.If you are currently using any product listed above, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting bexarotene.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: vitamins/supplements that contain vitamin A.This document does not contain all possible interactions. Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.
OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store with the cap tightly closed at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Keep away from heat and open flame. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Information last revised August 2021. Copyright(c) 2021 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
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