What is Targretin Topical?
Targretin (for the skin) is a medication used to treat skin lesions that are caused by a rare form of cancer known as T-cell lymphoma of the skin. The treatment is typically given following the failure of other treatments.
Targretin is also used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.
Side effects:
Contact a medical professional immediately If you are experiencing symptoms warning signs of an allergic response such as hives; difficulty breathing or swelling of your lips, face and tongue.
Stop taking Targretin and consult your physician immediately if you notice an extreme inflammation of the skin ( rash, itching redness, burning or scaling) following the application of the medicine.
Common negative side effects of Targretin can be:
- Itching, mild rash or skin irritations;
- Dry skin or peeling.
This isn't a complete list of all side effects. others could happen. Contact your physician to seek medical advice on adverse effects. You can report any symptoms to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Targretin may harm a newborn baby, or result in birth defects in the case that the mother or father is taking Targretin. Do not take this medication if you're expecting.
Women and men who are using Targretin should utilize effective contraception to avoid pregnancy starting one month before beginning and continuing for at least one month has passed after quitting treatment.
Stop taking this medication and inform your doctor immediately if you cease taking birth control pills, or if you do not have a menstrual cycle or if you have a pregnancy that occurs when both the mother and father is taking Targretin.
Related drugs
bexarotene , methoxsalen , Zolinza , Romidepsin , interferon gamma-1b
Before taking this medication
You shouldn't make use of Targretin If you are allergic to it or are expecting.
Speak to your doctor if were ever diagnosed with:
- Liver disease or
- Kidney disease.
Targretin may cause harm to an unborn baby and cause birth defects in the case that the mother or father are taking this medication. If you're male, use condoms during sexual relations if you girlfriend is currently pregnant, or capable of becoming pregnant. Use condoms even while taking Targretin as well for at least one month following your last dose. female who is pregnant, avoid using Targretin when you are expecting or planning to be pregnant. You must pass a negative pregnancy test seven days prior to the first time you take this medication and every month throughout treatment.
- It is recommended to begin using Targretin around your 2nd, or the 3rd day in a menstrual cycle that is normal.
- Make use of two effective methods of birth control starting 1 month prior to the time you begin using Targretin and continue for at least a month after the date of your last dose.
- At the very least, one of your methods of birth control should not be hormonal such as a condom, the cervical cap diaphragm or IUD that contains the spermicide.
- Stop taking Targretin and notify your doctor immediately if you stop using birth control or if you don't have menstrual periods.
If a pregnancy happens during the time that one of the mothers or father are taking Targretin discontinue the medicine and consult your doctor immediately. It is not recommended to breastfeed when you're taking Targretin.
How to take Targretin topical?
Follow the instructions on the label of your prescription and read the medication guide or instructions sheets. Make sure you use the medicine precisely as directed. Targretin is generally applied every two days during the first week, and gradually increased until applying the medicine four times each day. Follow the dosing guidelines of your physician with care. Be sure to read and adhere to any Instructions for Use that are included in your medication. Consult your physician or pharmacist for clarification if you are unsure of the instructions.
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after you use Targretin, unless you're taking the drug to treat the surface of your hands. Use only the amount of gel needed to completely cover every lesion. Don't cover the affected skin with the bandage. Beware of the possibility of getting Targretin in your mouth, eyes, or the nose, or on healthy skin. If this happens you should rinse or wash off the medication. It is possible to quit taking Targretin for a brief period in case you experience an extreme skin irritation.
Keep at room temperature, free of heat, moisture and light. It could take several weeks or even months before you are able to fully benefit from this medication. Your doctor will decide the duration of treatment for you.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medication as quickly as you can, however, avoid the missed dose if you think it is getting close to the time of the next dose. Don't apply two doses at once.
What happens if I overdose?
A dose of Targretin topical medicine isn't expected to pose a risk. You should seek medical attention in an emergency or contact for help at the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 If you have accidentally swallowed the drug.
Avoid this
Grapefruit could interfere with Targretin and cause unwanted negative side negative effects. Do not use grapefruit-related products. Do not take an vitamin A supplement without a doctor's guidance. Only take the dosage your doctor suggests. Targretin may cause you to get sunburn more quickly. Avoid tanning beds and sunlight. Be sure to wear protective attire and apply sunblock (SPF 30 or greater) while you're outdoors. Do not use other medicines for the areas you will treat using Targretin unless your doctor has told you to. Do not use insect repellents or other products that contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) while using Targretin. This medicine can increase DEET toxicity, which can be harmful.
Interaction with other drugs
Discuss with your doctor the medicines you are taking. Numerous drugs can affect Targretin particularly:
- Gemfibrozil;
- As an anti-microbial or antifungal medication;
- Antiviral medicine; or
- Seizure medicine.
This isn't a complete list and a variety of other medications could influence Targretin. This includes over-the-counter and prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal products. The interactions of all drugs are listed here.
