U.K. consensus statement on safe clinical prescribing of bexarotene for patients with cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma

Background  Bexarotene is a synthetic retinoid from the subclass of retinoids called rexinoids which selectively activate retinoid X receptors. It has activity in cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) and has been approved by the European Medicines Agency since 1999 for treatment of the skin manifestations of advanced‐stage (IIB–IVB) CTCL in adult patients refractory to at least one systemic treatment. In vivo bexarotene produces primary hypothyroidism which may be managed with thyroxine replacement. It also affects lipid metabolism, typically resulting in raised triglycerides, which requires prophylactic lipid‐modification therapy. Effects on neutrophils, glucose and liver function may also occur. These side‐effects are dose dependent and may be controlled with corrective therapy or dose adjustments.

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