Bexarotene Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 8, 2025.

Applies to bexarotene topical: topical gel/jelly.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check you at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

Bexarotene may cause your skin to be more sensitive to sunlight than it is normally. Exposure to sunlight, even for brief periods of time, may cause a skin rash, itching, redness or other discoloration of the skin, or a severe sunburn. When you begin taking this medicine:

• Stay out of direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., if possible.
• Wear protective clothing, including a hat. Also, wear sunglasses.
• Apply a sun block product that has a skin protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Some patients may require a product with a higher SPF number, especially if they have a fair complexion. If you have any questions about this, check with your health care professional.
• Apply a sun block lipstick that has an SPF of at least 15 to protect your lips.
• Do not use a sunlamp or tanning bed or booth.

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:

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:

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]

See also:

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