Tazorac (Tazarotene) belongs to a group of medications called retinoids. Tazarotene is a compound similar to vitamin A. It is used to treat plaque psoriasis and acne vulgaris. It helps the skin to renew itself more quickly and may improve the appearance and texture of skin. The cream form is also used to treat the signs and symptoms of premature aging of the skin caused by overexposure to the sun. Tazarotene helps psoriasis by reducing inflammation and keeping skin cell growth down to a normal rate. It appears to help acne partly by keeping skin pores clear.
In a study on Topical Tazarotene therapy for psoriasis, acne vulgaris, and photoaging by LC Guenther (Skin Therapy Lett, 2002 - researchgate.net) Psoriasis, acne vulgaris and photoaging are common conditions. Tazarotene is a pro-drug of tazarotenic acid, a receptor-selective retinoid, which has shown efficacy in the treatment of these disorders. In the treatment of acne vulgaris, it has greater comedolytic activity than the currently available topical retinoids. In psoriasis, tazarotene normalizes keratinocyte differentiation, reverses keratinocyte hyperproliferation and has better anti-inflammatory effects than any of the currently available topical retinoids. It is most commonly used as combination therapy with a topical corticosteroid or phototherapy in psoriasis, or with an antibiotic in acne.
Manufacturer Information
We currently have the brand from Canada and UK manufactured by Allergan. Tazorac is sold as a cream and a gel; available in strengths of 0.05 %/30 gm and 0.1 %/30 gm.
Stop using Tazarotene topical and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
• Severe skin irritation (burning, stinging, itching) after applying this medication;
• Severe redness or discomfort;
• Swelling, warmth, oozing, or other signs of skin infection
Less serious side effects of Tazarotene topical may include:
• Mild burning, stinging, or itching;
• Mild pain, redness, or irritation;
• Skin dryness, peeling
Do not use Tazorac cream if you are allergic to any ingredient in Tazorac cream or if you are pregnant. It is unknown if Tazorac cream is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Tazorac cream. Tazorac cream may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Tazorac cream. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time. There may be an interaction between tazarotene and other medications such as medications that increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight (e.g, hydrochlorothiazide, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, perphenazine, sulfamethoxazole), other skin products or treatments with strong drying effects such as electrolysis, hair depilatories, medicated soaps or shampoos, permanent wave solution, products containing high amounts of alcohol, astringents, spices or lime peel and waxes.
What type of acne does Tazorac used for?
Tazorac cream may be used for all types of acne, including severe forms of acne such as cystic acne. The Tazorac gel is used for mild to moderate acne that affects your face.
How long does it take for generic Tazorac to clear acne?
You should see your symptoms improve in about four weeks.
Can I apply my moisturizer after I use Tazorac?
You may use your moisturizer after you apply Tazorac but make sure that the Tazorac has been absorbed into the skin and is completely dry before applying your moisturizer.