Indications
Tazorac Gel is a prescription medication used topically on the skin to treat people with stable plaque psoriasis on up to 20% of body surfaces involved. It can be used to treat certain types of acne in people aged 12 years and older. It helps reduce facial wrinkles and discoloration by increasing the thickness of the outer skin layers.
Tazorac Gel contains the active ingredient tazarotene. Tazarotene is in a class of medications called retinoids. It works to treat acne and psoriasis by slowing skin cell overgrowth and decreasing skin cell inflammation, which can lead to acne or psoriasis.
Use and Dosage
Tazarotene gel is usually applied topically to the affected areas of the skin. It is usually used once a day in the evening.
To use tazarotene gel:
- Clean the affected area of the skin with a mild soap and water and pat it dry gently.
- Use your fingertips to apply a thin layer of the gel to the affected area and rub it in gently.
- The gel is usually applied once daily, in the evening before bedtime.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after washing your face or taking a shower before applying the gel.
- Do not apply the gel to the eyes, mouth, or inside the nose.
- Wash your hands after applying the gel.
Tazarotene gel should not be used by pregnant or nursing women without the advice of a healthcare provider. Use tazarotene at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use tazarotene exactly as directed. Do not use it or more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Tazorac Gel (Tazarotene):
- Dry, scaly, or peeling skin
- Itching or other irritation of treatment skin
- Skin redness or burning
Serious Side Effects of Tazorac Gel (Tazarotene):
- Blistering or peeling skin
- Burning, stinging, itching after applying the medicine
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Severe redness or discomfort
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Swelling, warmth, oozing, or other signs of skin infection
Forms and Strength
Tazorac Gel (Tazarotene) is available in the following forms and strength:
Tazorac Gel: Gel
- 0.05%
Cautions
- Tazorac may cause serious birth defects if used during pregnancy.
- Tazorac is not known to be safe and effective in children younger than 12 years of age.
- Tazorac may cause skin irritation and dryness.
- Tazorac may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Sunscreen should be used and exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays should be avoided.
- Tazorac should not be used on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin.
- Tazorac should be used with caution in individuals with eczema or a history of eczema.
- Tazorac should not be used at the same time as certain other medications, including some other acne medications or skin products that contain alcohol.
- Tazorac may interact with some medications, inform your healthcare provider of all medications, and supplements you are taking.
- Tazorac should not be used by people who are allergic to tazarotene or any of the other ingredients in the gel.
- Tazorac should be used as directed and only under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Discuss any concerns or questions about Tazorac with a healthcare provider before using it.
- Tazorac may cause your skin to become more sensitive to weather extremes such as cold and wind, and to cosmetics and other topical medications.
- Tazorac may cause skin discoloration, especially in individuals with darker skin tones.
- Tazorac may cause the development of new skin lesions.
- Tazorac may interact with certain chemicals and light sources, such as hair removers and tanning lamps, which may lead to severe skin irritation.
- Tazorac may affect the efficacy of other medications, including some topical medications used for acne.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Tazorac Gel to work?
It may take several weeks to see an improvement in your condition with Tazorac Gel. You should continue to use Tazorac Gel as directed unless your healthcare provider tells you to stop.
Can I use Tazorac Gel on sensitive skin?
Tazorac Gel may be more likely to cause skin irritation if you have sensitive skin. Be sure to discuss any concerns you have with your healthcare provider.
How long should I use Tazorac Gel for?
You should use Tazorac Gel for as long as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not use for longer than recommended without first consulting with your healthcare provider.
How should I store Tazorac Gel?
Store Tazorac Gel at room temperature, away from heat and light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Can I use makeup or moisturizer after applying Tazorac Gel?
You should wait at least 1 hour after applying Tazorac Gel before applying makeup or any other skincare products.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/020600s009lbl.pdf
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/tazorac-gel.html
- https://www.goodrx.com/tazarotene/what-is
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3329-8230/tazorac-topical/tazarotene-cream-topical/details
- https://www.rxlist.com/tazorac-drug.htm
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/020600s010lbl.pdf
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a616052.html
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