Tazorac

Generic name: Tazarotene

What is Tazorac?

Tazorac is used to treat the type of psoriasis (a chronic disease of the skin marked by red patches covered with red scales) that causes large plaques on the skin. The 0.1% strength is also used to treat mild to moderate facial acne.

What is the most important information I should know about Tazorac?

Tazorac may cause severe birth defects. If you are a woman in your childbearing years, do not use Tazorac if there is any chance you are pregnant. Your doctor should give you a pregnancy test within 2 weeks of starting Tazorac therapy and you should use reliable birth control measures as long as you are on Tazorac. If you accidentally become pregnant, stop using Tazorac and call your doctor immediately.

Who should not take Tazorac?

Do not use Tazorac if you are or may become pregnant or if you are allergic to any component of the drug.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Tazorac?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Tazorac. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are sunburned, sensitive to sunlight or are taking medications that might make you more sensitive to sunlight, or have eczema or other chronic skin conditions.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Apply to affected areas once a day in the evening.

How should I take Tazorac?

For psoriasis, apply a thin film of Tazorac to the affected areas each evening. Make sure your skin is dry before you begin. Keep Tazorac away from normal, healthy skin.

If you use a cream or lotion to soften or moisten your skin, wait at least an hour before applying Tazorac. Wash your hands after applying Tazorac.

To treat acne, first wash your face and dry it thoroughly. Then apply a thin film of Tazorac to the acne eruptions. Repeat every evening. Use enough to cover the entire affected area. Wash your hands after applying the medicine.

What should I avoid while taking Tazorac?

Keep Tazorac away from your eyes, eyelids, and mouth. If it gets in your eyes, wash them with large amounts of cool water. If eye irritation continues, contact your doctor.

Do not use Tazorac more often or use more than instructed. Using more Tazorac than recommended may cause more side effects and does not lead to better or faster results. Do not cover treated areas with dressings or bandages.

Avoid using other topical agents with a strong skin-drying effects, products with high concentrations of alcohol, astringents, spices, lime peels, medicated soaps or shampoos, permanent wave solutions, electrolysis, hair removers or waxes, or other preparations or processes that might dry or irritate the skin.

Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun or sunlamps while using Tazorac. Apply sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and wear protective clothing when you go into the sunlight.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Tazorac?

If Tazorac is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Tazorac with the following: quinolone antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin), sulfa drugs (such as sulfamethoxazole or sulfasalazine), tetracycline antibiotics (such as doxycycline and minocycline), thiazide-type diuretics (water pills), vitamin A supplements.

What are the possible side effects of Tazorac?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: burning, dry skin, itching, peeling, red skin, stinging

Can I receive Tazorac if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Tazorac may cause birth defects and must never be used during pregnancy. Tazorac may appear in breast milk, so avoid use while breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Tazorac?

Skip the dose and continue on your normal schedule. Do not try to make up the missed dose of Tazorac. Do not apply extra Tazorac to make up for the missed dose.

How should I store Tazorac?

Store at room temperature.