Bexarotene - Topical

Bexarotene is used to treat a certain type of skin cancer in individuals who are unable to tolerate other therapies.

Apply Bexarotene exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.

To use the gel, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Clean and dry the affected area before application.
3. Apply a generous coating of gel gently on the skin to cover the lesions. If you have taken a bath or shower, wait for at least 20 minutes before applying the gel. Avoid application onto the healthy skin around the lesion or scratching the treated areas.
4. Allow the gel to dry for 5-10 minutes before covering the lesions with loose clothing. Do not use occlusive dressings to cover the area unless instructed by the doctor.
5. Wash your hands after using.
6. Replace the cap of the tube.

If possible, avoid bathing, showering or swimming for at least 3 hours after application of the gel.

Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, lips, or nose. Rinse immediately with water if it gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on the severity of your condition and response to the medication.

Bexarotene must be applied regularly for it to be effective. Continue using this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon. If you become pregnant while on Bexarotene therapy, alert your doctor immediately. This medicine may cause harm to your unborn child.

It is important that you do not get pregnant while using this medicine. You must use proven birth control methods for 1 month before starting, during Bexarotene therapy and for at least 1 month after stopping the treatment. Birth control medicines containing hormones may not be effective. You may wish to discuss other reliable methods of birth control with your doctor.

Men with female partners of childbearing potential must also use proven birth control methods during treatment and for at least 1 month after the last dose of Bexarotene. You may wish to discuss reliable methods of birth control with your doctor.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• known allergic reaction to a similar type of medicine known as retinoids
• high levels of vitamin A in the blood

Let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.

• Pregnancy tests must be done before starting and during treatment to know if this medicine is suited for you to use.
• Regular monitoring for signs of skin reactions may also be needed.

Bexarotene may cause any of the following side effects: headache, weakness, rash, itching, redness, burning sensation, irritation, and scaling of skin at the application site.

This medicine may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.

If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Do not use insect repellants or other products containing diethyltoluamide (DEET) while using Bexarotene.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking medicines or supplements containing vitamin A.

Alert your doctor if you are taking birth control pills or other types of hormonal birth control. You may need to add on another type of birth control.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from light.

After the gel tube is opened, avoid exposing it to humidity or high temperatures. Keep away from open flame.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

As this is a cancer medicine, always return any unused or expired gel to the clinic, hospital, or pharmacy for disposal.