Tazorac

formulated to manage acne vulgaris and designed to alleviate skin inflammation and promote cell turnover in psoriasis.

Strengths: 1 · 5%

Medicine details

Alternative names

Zorac

Therapeutic class

Retinoid

Pharmacological class

Acetylenic Retinoid

Contraindications

hypersensitivity to tazarotene; pregnancy; women planning pregnancy

Minor side effects

skin irritation; burning sensation; dry skin; erythema

Moderate side effects

pruritus; desquamation

Serious side effects

severe skin irritation — requires immediate medical attention

Dosage forms

Cream; Gel

Administration route

Cutaneous use

Prescription status

POM

Manufacturer

AbbVie

Onset Time

4–8 weeks

Duration

3–6 months

Storage instructions

Store at controlled room temperature, away from extremes of heat.

Drug interactions

isotretinoin; adapalene

Age restrictions

Not recommended for children under 12 years.

Precautions and warnings

avoid contact with eyes; use sunscreen daily as photosensitivity may increase; avoid concurrent use of other retinoids

Patient summary

formulated to manage acne vulgaris and designed to alleviate skin inflammation and promote cell turnover in psoriasis.

Mechanism of action

Tazarotene is a receptor-selective retinoid prodrug that is converted to its active form, tazarotenic acid. It binds to retinoic acid receptors (RAR) to modulate gene expression involved in cell differentiation and proliferation, reducing epidermal hyperplasia.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Contraindicated; must use effective contraception. Breastfeeding: Not recommended.

Tazorac

formulated to manage acne vulgaris and designed to alleviate skin inflammation and promote cell turnover in psoriasis.

Editorial Notes

  • Active ingredient(s): Tazarotene
  • Listed indication(s): Plaque Psoriasis, Acne Vulgaris

Usually available as

  • 2 tubes - 1 %1031-1-pct-17309
  • 4 tubes - 5 %1031-5-pct-13005