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Targretin

Targretin Side Effects

Michelle Nguyen, PharmD
Reviewed by Wendy Tin, PharmD, Michelle Nguyen, PharmD
Last reviewed on March 4, 2022

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Rash (72%)
  • Itching (36%)
  • Pain (30%)

Less Common Side Effects

  • Skin irritation
  • Headache
  • Swelling
  • Infection

Source: DailyMed

The following Targretin side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Since this medication is given in varying doses, the actual frequency of side effects may vary. In general, side effects are less common with lower doses than with higher doses.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Unusual tiredness or weakness

skin rash or other skin and mucous membrane lesions

fever

increase in lipid or cholesterol levels

coldness, dry, puffy skin or weight gain

chills, cough, hoarseness, lower back or side pain or painful or difficult urination

swelling of the arms, feet, hands, or legs

Less Common

Severe stomach pain with nausea or vomiting

shortness of breath

yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Abdominal pain

hair loss

loss of appetite

loss of strength or energy, tiredness or weakness

back pain

diarrhea

dry skin

general feeling of discomfort or illness

trouble in sleeping

headache

nausea or vomiting

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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Why trust our experts?

Michelle Nguyen, PharmD, has been a clinical pharmacist for 6 years (and counting). She has a diverse skill set within managed care pharmacy, specifically in the settings of a medical group, pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), and health plan.

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