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General Medication Fact Sheet for Tazorac
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Tazorac |
| Generic Name | Tazarotene |
| Boxed/Label Warning | Pregnancy Category X: Contraindicated in pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential should use adequate contraception. |
| Purpose | Topical retinoid used to treat acne vulgaris and psoriasis. |
| Mechanism of Action | Tazarotene is a retinoid prodrug which is converted to its active form, tazarotenic acid, which binds to retinoic acid receptors (RARs). This modifies gene expression, reducing inflammation and normalizing skin cell growth. |
| Dosage Forms | Topical cream, topical gel |
| Available Strengths | 0.05% cream/gel, 0.1% cream/gel |
| Dosage Frequency | Apply a thin layer to affected areas once daily, usually in the evening. |
| Common Side Effects | Burning, stinging, redness, peeling, dryness, itching at the application site. |
| Serious Side Effects | Severe skin irritation, photosensitivity, changes in skin pigmentation. |
| Drug Interactions | Other topical acne medications (e.g., Benzoyl Peroxide, salicylic acid) may increase irritation. Use with caution. |
| Important Notes | Avoid sun exposure or use sunscreen. Not for use in pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant. Use only on affected areas. Consult your doctor if irritation becomes severe. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from heat and light. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Missed Dose | Apply as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next application time, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. |
| Alternatives | Retin-A (tretinoin), Differin (adapalene), Clindamycin, Benzoyl Peroxide |
Tazorac Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Retin-A (tretinoin) | Retinoic acid receptor agonist | Another topical retinoid used for acne and anti-aging. |
| Differin (adapalene) | Retinoid-like compound; selective retinoic acid receptor agonist | Available over-the-counter in lower strengths; generally less irritating than tretinoin. |
| Clindamycin | Antibiotic; inhibits bacterial protein synthesis | Used to reduce bacterial colonization associated with acne. Often combined with Benzoyl Peroxide. |
| Benzoyl Peroxide | Antimicrobial and comedolytic | Reduces bacteria and helps unclog pores. Available in various strengths. |
Tazorac Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Burning | Severe skin irritation |
| Stinging | Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight) |
| Redness | Changes in skin pigmentation (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation) |
| Peeling | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling) |
Tazorac Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acne Vulgaris | 0.05% or 0.1% cream/gel | 0.05% or 0.1% cream/gel once daily | Apply a thin layer to affected areas once daily, usually in the evening. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. |
| Psoriasis | 0.05% or 0.1% cream/gel | 0.05% or 0.1% cream/gel once daily | Apply a thin layer to affected areas once daily, usually in the evening. Avoid application to unaffected skin. |
