GENERIC NAME: TAZAROTENE - TOPICAL (tah-ZAIR-oh-teen)
BRAND NAME(S): Tazorac
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat psoriasis or acne.
HOW TO USE: For external use only. Clean and dry the affected area of skin and apply a thin layer once daily in the evening. Follow doctor's instructions exactly as stated on the prescription label. Do not use more than directed and do not apply to unaffected skin, eyes/eyelids or in the mouth. Do not cover treated area with dressings or bandages. If contact with eyes occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Wash hands after using unless you are treating a hand problem. Psoriasis conditions will usually improve within one to four weeks but redness may take longer to improve. In acne conditions this drug is generally used for up to 12 weeks or as directed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Generally, the possible skin side effects are mild to moderate. Itching, burning/stinging, redness, irritation, swelling, dryness or skin pain may occur. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor promptly if any of the following effects occur: worsening of the original skin problem, skin rash or skin cracking, discoloration or bleeding of the skin, severe skin redness/irritation/burning/stinging. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using tazarotene, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including: other skin conditions (such as eczema, sunburn, sun sensitivity). Protective clothing and sunscreens (minimum SPF 15) are advised during the day. Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible, and avoid sunlamps completely. This drug can result in sun sensitivity (sunburn-type effect). This drug must not be used during pregnancy due to the potential for fetal harm. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, stop using this drug and inform your doctor immediately. Before starting this medication, women who could become pregnant should have a negative pregnancy test result within the last 2 weeks. This medication should be started during a normal menstrual period. Women should also use reliable birth control while using this drug. Consult your doctor before starting this medication. This medication passes into breast milk. While there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Psoriasis - Read about psoriasis symptoms, causes, treatment information, medication and types: vulgaris, guttate, inverse and pustular. Red dry flakes, skin scales and plaques of raised skin are common symptoms.
- Acne (Pimples) - Learn acne causes, treatment information and types: comedones, whiteheads, blackheads, zits, pustules and cystic acne. Folliculitis and rosacea may look like pimples, but they're different conditions.
- Keratosis Pilaris - Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a skin condition in which white bumps appear on the upper arms, thighs and cheeks. Read about KP causes, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.
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