Targretin

Targretin (Bexarotene) treats a type of skin cancer which is known as cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, often abbreviated to CTCL. Patients prescribed this cancer treatment have usually already tried other alternative treatments unsuccessfully. It is a retinoid vitamin A derivative which is shown to effectively slow or prevent the spread of cancer cells.

Recently Bexarotene has received a large amount of attention from respectable newspapers due to the mounting evidence it can treat Alzheimer`s disease. Alzheimer`s disease currently has no cure, so there is great interest in this medication as viable cure or maintenance treatment for the disease.

Patients prescribed Targretin (Bexarotene) are usually instructed to take one capsule per day. Dosage can vary depending on the patient so it is important to always follow your prescription. Unless otherwise instructed, capsules should always be swallowed whole and taken alongside a meal. Never stop taking this medication before the end of your course of medication without first consulting your physician. The positive effects of this medication may take weeks or even months occur.

As with all medication, there is certain risk of side effects occurring when taking Targretin (Bexarotene). Side effects associated with this medication include:

• Headaches
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Stomach pains
• Nausea
• Fever
• Insomnia
• Dry skin
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Vision changes of any kind

Targretin (Bexarotene) should never be taken by pregnant female patients or any patients (including male patients) trying to conceive. Two different effective kinds of contraception (including one barrier-method of contraception) should be used from one month prior to treatment until at least one month after treatment has ceased. Female patients should have a pregnancy test one month prior to treatment, regularly during treatment, and again one month after treatment has ceased.

Targretin (Bexarotene) can cause hypothyroidism and high cholesterol levels for some patients. These adverse effects will be discovered quickly if you attend all of the scheduled blood tests which are normal when a patient is prescribed this medication.

Patients taking this medication should not consume any grapefruit containing products for the duration of their treatment and for at least one month after.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Targretin (Bexarotene) as you have been prescribed by your physician. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your physician. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your physician:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.