Bexarotene Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 13, 2025.

Applies to bexarotene topical: topical gel/jelly.

Serious side effects of bexarotene topical

Along with its needed effects, bexarotene topical may cause some unwanted effects. Some side effects will have signs or symptoms that you can see or feel. Your doctor may watch for others by doing certain tests. Since the medication is applied externally to the skin, in general, these side effect are less common. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking bexarotene topical:

More common side effects

• bloating or swelling of face, hands, lower legs and/or feet
• chills, fever, or general feeling of discomfort or illness
• decreased urination
• lack or loss of strength
• rapid or unusual weight gain
• skin rash, blisters, redness, or irritation
• sticky or tacky sensation
• thickened, scaly skin
• tingling or “pins and needles” sensation
• sore throat
• swollen, painful or tender lymph glands in neck, armpit, or groin
• unusual bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness.

Other side effects of bexarotene topical

Some side effects of bexarotene topical 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 side effects

• Abnormal or excessive sweating
• blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, flaking, itching, scaling, severe redness, soreness, or swelling of skin or lesion
• headache
• increased cough
• lower back or side pain
• painful or difficult urination

For healthcare professionals

Applies to bexarotene topical: topical gel.

General adverse events

The most common adverse events were rash, pruritus, skin disorder, and pain.^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Very common (10% or more): Rash (72%), pruritus (36%), skin disorders NOS (26%), contact dermatitis (14%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Exfoliative dermatitis, sweating, maculopapular rash^[Ref]

Other

• Very common (10% or more): Pain (30%), edema (10%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Peripheral edema^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Very common (10% or more): Hyperlipidemia (10%)^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Leukopenia, lymphadenopathy, WBC abnormal^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Headache (14%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Asthenia, paresthesia^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Cough increased, pharyngitis^[Ref]

Further information

Bexarotene topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer