Targretin (bexarotene)
Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data
Overview
Bexarotene, a synthetic retinoid analog, is an antineoplastic agent that selectively binds with and activates retinoid X receptor (RXR) subtypes (RXRalpha, RXRbeta, and RXRgamma).
Bexarotene, a synthetic retinoid analog, is an antineoplastic agent that selectively binds with and activates retinoid X receptor (RXR) subtypes (RXRalpha, RXRbeta, and RXRgamma). Activated RXRs function as transcription factors that regulate the expression of genes controlling cellular differentiation, apoptosis, and proliferation. The exact mechanism(s) of action of bexarotene in the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma has not been determined.
Plasma bexarotene concentrations generally were low or undetectable following single or multiple daily topical applications of bexarotene. In vitro studies suggest that orally administered bexarotene is metabolized extensively in the liver principally via oxidation by the cytochrome P-450 (CYP) 3A4 isoenzyme. Biliary excretion apparently is the principal route of elimination of the drug and its metabolites.
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).
Generic name: bexarotene
Pronunciation: (bex-AR-oh-teen)
Reference product & biosimilars
No reference, biosimilar or interchangeable associated with this drug.
Today’s intelligence on Targretin
Indications
The following indications are listed for Targretin:
- Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
Also known as: Primary Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma, Small Cerebriform Cell Lymphoma.
Dosing
No dosing information is available for this tab.
No dosing information is available for this tab.
No dosing information is available for this tab.
No dosing information is available for this tab.
Drug interactions
There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.
There are no contraindication interactions for this drug.
There are no severe interactions for this drug.
There are no moderate interactions for this drug.
Contraindications
Known or suspected pregnancy. Known hypersensitivity to bexarotene or any ingredient in the formulation.
There are no contraindication contraindications for this drug.
There are no severe contraindications for this drug.
There are no moderate contraindications for this drug.
Adverse reactions
Adverse effects occurring in more than more than 10% of patients receiving bexarotene gel include rash, pruritus, skin disorders (e.g., inflammation, excoriation, sticky or tacky skin sensation), pain, and contact dermatitis.
There are no severe adverse reactions for this drug.
There are no less severe adverse reactions for this drug.
Precautions
No enhanced messaging available.
Safety and efficacy not established in children younger than 18 years of age.
Category X. (See Warnings: Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality and also Contraindications, in Cautions.)
Not known whether bexarotene is distributed in milk. Discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
No substantial differences in safety relative to younger adults, but increased sensitivity cannot be ruled out.
ICD codes
No ICD codes are available for this drug.
Formulary status
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Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data
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