Drug Interaction Report

Bexarotene Topical and Oliceridine: Interaction Details

AI-assisted, pharmacist-reviewed · Source data updated Aug 8, 2026 · Sources: FDA labeling, DDInter 2.0, cited literature

Oliceridine

Olinvyk
+

Bexarotene Topical

Targretin Targretin® Topical Gel
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS
Medically reviewed by
Updated Aug 8, 2026
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Interaction severity
Major
Potentially serious — often needs a change or close monitoring.
How we grade severity & evidence

Severity levels

  • Contraindicated: These should generally not be used together.
  • Major: Potentially serious — often needs a change or close monitoring.
  • Moderate: Can be significant — usually manageable with monitoring.
  • Minor: Usually limited clinical impact.

Evidence grades

  • Established: Well documented — supported by controlled studies or strong clinical data.
  • Probable: Good supporting evidence, though not definitively proven.
  • Suspected: Some evidence suggests this interaction, but it is not well established.
  • Possible: Limited or conflicting evidence; the interaction may occur.
  • Theoretical: Predicted from the drugs' pharmacology; not yet confirmed in people.

Ratings come from the documented interaction literature and are reviewed by a pharmacist. They describe the documented risk of the combination, not what will necessarily happen to you — your dose, timing, and health picture all matter.

Of 75 documented Bexarotene Topical interactions, 54 are rated major — including this one.
Worried about symptoms right now? Contact your pharmacist or prescriber, or call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 (US). Call 911 for an emergency.
Onset
unspecified
Evidence
theoretical
Severity
Major

What happens

Reduced oliceridine exposure and reduced efficacy of oliceridine

Interaction Deep Dive

Concomitant use of oliceridine (a CYP3A4 substrate) and CYP3A4 inducers can reduce the exposure of oliceridine, resulting in reduced efficacy or onset of a withdrawal syndrome in patients who have developed physical dependence to oliceridine. If concomitant use is necessary in patients taking CYP3A4 inducer, consider increasing the dose of oliceridine until stable drug effects are achieved and monitor for signs of opioid withdrawal. After stopping a CYP3A4 inducer, as the effects of the inducer decline, the oliceridine exposure may increase, which could increase or prolong both the therapeutic effects and adverse reactions and may cause serious respiratory depression. If a CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, consider increasing the dose of oliceridine and monitor patients closely for signs of respiratory depression1.

Why it happens (mechanism)

Induction of CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of oliceridine

Common questions

Can I take Bexarotene Topical and Oliceridine together?

Reduced oliceridine exposure and reduced efficacy of oliceridine Always confirm with your pharmacist or prescriber before making any change.

How serious is the Bexarotene Topical and Oliceridine interaction?

It is rated major. Potentially serious — often needs a change or close monitoring.

How quickly could this interaction happen?

The documented onset is "unspecified". The timing of this interaction is not well characterized.

How strong is the evidence for this interaction?

The evidence is graded "theoretical". Predicted from the drugs' pharmacology; not yet confirmed in people.

Questions for your pharmacist

  • Does my dose of Bexarotene Topical or Oliceridine need adjusting while I take them together?
  • What symptoms should prompt me to call you or my prescriber right away?
  • Does the timing of my doses matter for this combination?
  • Is there a safer alternative to one of these medications for me?

References (1)

  1. Product Information: OLINVYK® intravenous injection, oliceridine intravenous injection. Trevena Inc (per FDA), Chesterbrook, PA, 2026. DailyMed
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Beyond drug–drug

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This information is for education, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not start, stop, or change any medication without talking to your pharmacist or prescriber.