What are the major side effects of bexarotene in the treatment of patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma?

Bexarotene (Targretin) is a synthetic retinoid that selectively activates retinoid X receptors. The drug is given orally at a recommended dose of 300 mg/m2. Partial response rate (50% improvement) was 67% and complete response occurred in 7% of patients. Like other retinoid drugs, Targretin is teratogenic and should not be given to pregnant women. In a study of 58 patients with patch and plaque stage disease, side effects included hyperlipidemia in 83%, neutropenia in 47%, central hypothyroidism in 74%, and hypercholesteremia in 47% of patients.

Duvic M, Martin AG, Kim Y, et al: Oral Targretin (bexarotene) capsules are safe and effective in refractory or persistent early-stage cutaneous T-cell lymphoma: results of the phase 2–3 clinical trial, Presented at the American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting, New Orleans, 1999.