BEXAROTENE (Generic for TARGRETIN)

Take this medication by mouth with water. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Take it with food. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
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.

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medication.
You may need blood work while taking this medication.
This medication can increase bad cholesterol and fats (such as LDL, triglycerides) and decrease good cholesterol (HDL) in your blood. You may need blood tests to check your cholesterol. Ask your care team what you can do to lower your risk of high cholesterol while taking this medication.
This medication may cause cataracts, especially with long-term use. You should have regular eye exams while taking this medication. Tell your care team if you have changes in your eyesight.
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 sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.
Talk to your care team if you or your partner wish to become pregnant or think either of you might be pregnant. This medication can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy or for 1 month after stopping therapy. Reliable forms of contraception are recommended starting 1 month before, during, and for 1 month after stopping therapy. Estrogen and progestin hormones may not work as well while you are taking this medication. A barrier contraceptive, such as a condom or diaphragm, is recommended. Talk to your care team about other forms of contraception.
A negative pregnancy test is required before starting this medication. Negative pregnancy tests are also required during treatment, even if you are not sexually active.
Do not breastfeed while taking this mediation.
If your partner can get pregnant, use a condom during sex while taking this medication and for 1 month after the last dose. Tell your care team right away if you think your partner might be pregnant. This medication can cause serious birth defects.

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

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.

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store between 2 and 25 degrees C (36 and 77 degrees F). Protect from heat, light, and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed.
Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date. To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
-Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
-If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

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.