Tazarotene (Tazorac) Basics, Side Effects, Reviews & More
Tazarotene (Tazorac)
Basics, Side Effects, Reviews & More
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Tazarotene (Tazorac) is a highly effective, topical medication used to treat acne. The cream and gel forms can also treat plaque psoriasis. Although generally well-tolerated, it can cause skin redness or peeling and might be expensive.
COMMON BRANDS
Tazorac, Fabior, Arazlo
DRUG CLASS
Retinoid
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CLASSIFICATION
Not a controlled medication
GENERIC STATUS
Lower-cost generic available
AVAILABILITY
Prescription only
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What is tazarotene (Tazorac)?
How tazarotene (Tazorac) works
Tazarotene (Tazorac) is a retinoid. It's unclear exactly how the medication works to treat acne and plaque psoriasis. It's thought that it helps skin cells renew faster, which might help with the appearance and texture of the skin.
What is tazarotene (Tazorac) used for?
- Acne
- Plaque psoriasis - cream and gel only
Tazarotene (Tazorac) dosage forms
Typical dosing for tazarotene (Tazorac)
Acne
- Cream or gel for adults and children over 12 years old (Tazorac): Clean your face. Once your skin is dry, apply a thin layer of the 0.1% cream or gel to the affected area(s) once daily in the evening.
- Foam for adults and children 12 years or older (Fabior): Clean the affected areas with a mild cleanser and let it dry completely. Gently massage a thin layer of medication into the skin of the affected areas until the foam disappears, once daily in the evening.
- Lotion for adults and children 9 years or older (Arazlo): Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) once daily.
Plaque psoriasis (Tazorac)
- Cream or gel (Tazorac): Start with the 0.05% strength, then move up to 0.1% as tolerated. Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) once daily in the evening. Do not apply the gel to more than 20% of your body.
Frequently asked questions about tazarotene (Tazorac)
Is tazarotene (Tazorac) gel better than the cream?
One is not necessarily better than the other in terms of how well they work, because they both have the same active ingredient. The gel might be more suitable if you have oily skin, while the cream would be more appropriate if you have dry skin.
Can I apply moisturizer after tazarotene (Tazorac)?
Yes, you can put moisturizer over tazarotene (Tazorac). Just make sure that tazarotene (Tazorac) is completely rubbed in and the skin is dry to the touch before applying moisturizer over it.
Is tazarotene (Tazorac) supposed to burn?
Burning or stinging where you apply tazarotene (Tazorac) is a possible side effect, but it shouldn't be extreme. If it becomes excessive or intolerable, let your provider know.
Is tazarotene (Tazorac) the same as isotretinoin (Absorica)?
Tazarotene (Tazorac) and isotretinoin (Absorica) are both considered retinoids and are used to treat acne, but they are not exactly the same thing. Tazarotene (Tazorac) is a topical medication that you apply to your skin, whereas isotretinoin (Absorica) is an oral medication that you take by mouth. Tazarotene (Tazorac) is typically used for mild-to-moderate acne, while Accutane is reserved for more severe acne problems.
Can tazarotene (Tazorac) be used under the eyes?
It's best to avoid applying tazarotene (Tazorac) near the eye area. Try not to get any of the medication in your eyes when applying it on your face. If you do accidentally get tazarotene (Tazorac) in your eyes, make sure to thoroughly rinse your eyes with water.
Pros and cons of tazarotene (Tazorac)
Pros
A first choice for treating acne
Only needs to be applied once a day
Safe to use for acne in children 12 years and older. Arazlo is safe to use in children 9 years or older.
Cream and gel works well with very few side effects for plaque psoriasis.
Foam formulation for acne is less greasy than the cream.
Cons
Not safe to use while pregnant
Will cause you to sunburn easier
Might be more expensive than some alternatives
Skin irritation is a common side effect and can be excessive for some people.
Foam and lotion don't have generic options.
Pharmacist tips for tazarotene (Tazorac)
If
you're using tazarotene (Tazorac) for plaque psoriasis, you should use
creams or lotions to soften or moisten the skin at least 1 hour before
applying tazarotene (Tazorac).
When
using tazarotene (Tazorac) for acne, use a gentle cleanser to clean the
areas where you will be applying the medication. Make sure your skin is
completely dry before using tazarotene (Tazorac).
If
your skin becomes irritated from using tazarotene (Tazorac), apply
tazarotene (Tazorac) less often until the irritation goes away. If this
doesn't help, contact your provider.
To
avoid unnecessary skin irritation, apply tazarotene (Tazorac) only on
the areas where you need it. Avoid putting on healthy or unaffected
skin.
Tazarotene
(Tazorac) makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, which means you
might sunburn very easily. This is true even during the winter and on
overcast days. Make sure to avoid sun exposure, wear a wide-brimmed hat,
and use a moisturizing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 while you
are using tazarotene (Tazorac).
The Fabior foam can catch on fire. Do not use near an open flame or while smoking.
What are the side effects of tazarotene (Tazorac)?
With any medication, there are risks and benefits. Even if the medication is working, you may experience some unwanted side effects.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Allergic reactions
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets
used to the medication. Let your doctor know immediately if you continue
to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common side effects
- Skin redness
- Itching
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Skin peeling
- Dry skin
Other side effects
- Skin irritation
- Rash
- Swelling where the medication is applied
- Skin pain
- Blistering
- Worsening of psoriasis (cream and gel only)
Source: DailyMed
What are the risks and warnings for tazarotene (Tazorac)?
Tazarotene (Tazorac) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options
Sunburn
- Risk factors: Sun exposure | Taking other medications that can cause sun sensitivity
Tazarotene (Tazorac) can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause you to get a sunburn more easily. Make sure to wear protective clothing, and use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you go outside, even on overcast days and during the winter. You should also avoid tanning beds while you are using tazarotene (Tazorac).
Skin irritation
- Risk factors: Dry skin | Using skin products containing alcohol
Tazarotene (Tazorac) can cause skin peeling, dryness, itching, and other irritations. This will make your skin more sensitive to cold or windy weather. Avoid using other cosmetics or topical products that could dry out your skin, especially those containing alcohol. If irritation occurs and persists, talk to your provider as the dose might have to be changed or the medication might have to be stopped.
Harm to unborn baby
Tazarotene (Tazorac) shouldn't be used during pregnancy, as it could harm your unborn baby. You will need a negative pregnancy test 2 weeks before starting tazarotene (Tazorac). It's also important to be taking an effective form of birth control while using this medication to prevent pregnancy.
Flammable (Fabior foam only)
The Fabior foam has the potential to catch on fire, so it should be kept away from an open flame. If you smoke cigarettes, make sure to refrain from smoking during and right after applying the medication.
Interactions between tazarotene (Tazorac) and other medications
Tazarotene (Tazorac) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with tazarotene (Tazorac). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.
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