Targretin (topical)

Targretin (for the skin) is used to treat skin lesions caused by a rare type of cancer called cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. This medicine is usually given after other treatments have failed.

Targretin may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Targretin can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects if either the mother or the father is using Targretin. Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant.

Both men and women using Targretin should use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy, starting 1 month before treatment and continuing for at least 1 month after stopping the medicine.

Stop using this medicine and inform your doctor immediately if you stop using birth control, if you miss a menstrual period, or if a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using Targretin.

You should not use Targretin if you are allergic to it, or if you are pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease; or
• kidney disease.

Targretin can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects if either the mother or the father is using this medicine.

If you are a man, use condoms during sex if your partner is pregnant or can get pregnant. Keep using condoms while using Targretin and for at least 1 month after your last dose.

If you are a woman, do not use Targretin if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You must have a negative pregnancy test 7 days before you start using this medicine and once a month during treatment.

• You should start using Targretin on the 2nd or 3rd day of a normal menstrual period.
• Use 2 effective forms of birth control starting 1 month before you begin Targretin, and continue until at least 1 month after your last dose.
• At least one of your forms of birth control should be non-hormonal such as a condom, cervical cap, contraceptive sponge, IUD, or diaphragm with spermicide.
• Stop using Targretin and tell your doctor right away if you stop using birth control, or if you miss a menstrual period.

If a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using Targretin, stop using the medicine and tell your doctor right away.

You should not breastfeed while you are using Targretin.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Targretin and call your doctor immediately if you experience severe skin irritation (rash, itching, burning, redness, scaling) after applying the medicine.

Common side effects of Targretin may include:

• mild rash, itching, or skin irritation; or
• skin dryness or peeling.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Targretin is usually applied once every other day for the first week and gradually increased until you are applying the medicine 4 times every day. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Wash your hands before and after using Targretin, unless you are using the medication to treat the skin on your hands.

Apply only enough gel to cover each lesion. Do not cover the treated skin with a bandage.

Avoid getting Targretin in your eyes, mouth, or nose, or on healthy skin. If this does happen, rinse or wash off the medicine.

You may need to stop using Targretin for a short time if you have severe skin irritation.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

It may take several weeks or months before you receive the full benefit of this medicine. Your doctor will determine how long to treat you.

Apply the medicine as soon as possible, but skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at once.

An overdose of Targretin (topical) is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

Grapefruit may interact with Targretin and cause unwanted side effects. Avoid using grapefruit products.

Avoid taking a vitamin A supplement without your doctor's advice. Use only the amount your doctor recommends.

Targretin (topical) could make you more prone to sunburn. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outside.

Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with Targretin unless your doctor instructs you to.

Do not use insect repellents or other products that contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) while using Targretin. This medicine may increase DEET toxicity, which could be dangerous.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are currently taking. Many drugs can influence Targretin, especially:

• gemfibrozil;
• an antibiotic or antifungal medicine;
• antiviral medicine; or
• seizure medicine.

This list is not complete, and many other drugs may also affect Targretin. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are mentioned here.