Bexarotene vs. Targretin for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Bexarotene

(Targretin)

Targretin

(bexarotene)

Summary for Bexarotene

Prescription only

Bexarotene (Targretin) is an oral retinoid medication used to treat a rare skin cancer called cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) in adults. It’s a type of chemotherapy, usually prescribed when other treatments have stopped working. You take the dose once a day with food, and you’ll need regular blood tests to check for side effects. Common side effects include headache, feeling very tired or low on energy, and high cholesterol levels in the blood.

Indications for Bexarotene

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), after at least one other treatment has stopped working

Pros and Cons for Bexarotene

Pros

Pills taken by mouth once a day
Recommended option when previous treatment no longer work
Can be used alone or with other treatments

Cons

Typically requires taking multiple capsules for each daily dose
Commonly causes higher cholesterol levels in the blood
Not safe during pregnancy

Common Side Effects for Bexarotene

Higher levels of fat or cholesterol in the blood (up to 79%)
Headache (37%)
Lower thyroid hormone level (29%)
Feeling weak or tired (up to 20%)

Warnings for Bexarotene

Harm to unborn baby
High cholesterol and triglycerides (fat) in the blood
Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
Liver problems
Low thyroid hormone levels
Low white blood cell count
Cataracts
Low blood sugar in people with diabetes
Sensitivity to the sun

Summary for Targretin

Prescription only

Targretin (bexarotene) is a topical gel used to treat skin problems that happen with a rare type of cancer called cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. This cancer can affect the skin and cause red, scaly patches, and even tumors. Targretin (bexarotene) is usually for people who have tried other medications but need a treatment that works better.

Indications for Targretin

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (refractory or persistent)

Pros and Cons for Targretin

Pros

Good option for people who didn't see benefits from other medications
Has few interactions with oral medications because only a small amount gets absorbed into the body
Not known to cause any severe or major side effects

Cons

Can take 4 weeks or more before your symptoms get better
Can make your skin more sensitive to light, so you need to limit sunbathing or tanning while using this medication
Not a good choice if you're pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant because it can cause harm to the unborn baby
Only available as brand-name medication, so can be expensive