The present invention includes novel retinoid compounds that have selectivity as RXR agonists on one or more isoforms of RXR, currently, RXR.alpha., RXR.beta., or RXR.gamma.. The present compounds, and pharmaceutical compositions incorporating these compounds, therefore, are effective in treating conditions mediated by RXRs. Among other physiological responses, the compounds of the present invention reduce blood glucose and maintain body weight, and, thus, are useful for the treatment of diabetes (NIDDIM) and obesity.