Tazarotene
Tazarotene (Tazorac)
Tazarotene
(taz- AR-oh-teen)
Pregnancy Category: X Tazorac (Rx)

Classification: Antipsoriasis topical drug

Action/Kinetics: A retinoid prodrug converted by deesterification to active cognate carboxylic acid of tazarotene. Mechanism not known. Little systemic absorption. t 1/2, after topical use: About 18 hr. Parent drug and metabolite are further metabolized and excreted through urine and feces.

Uses: Stable plaque psoriasis. Mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris.

Contraindications: Pregnancy. Use on eczematous skin. Use of cosmetics or skin medications that have strong drying effect.

Special Concerns: Use with caution during lactation. Safety and efficacy have not been determined in children less than 12 years of age. Psoriasis may worsen from month 4 to 12 compared with first 3 months of therapy. Use with caution with drugs that cause photosensitivity.

Side Effects: Dermatologic: Pruritus, photosensitivity, burning/stinging, erythema, worsening of psoriasis, skin pain, irritation, rash, desquamation, contact dermatitis, skin inflammation, fissuring, bleeding, dry skin, localized edema, skin discoloration.

Overdose Management: Symptoms: Marked redness, peeling, discomfort. Treatment: Decrease or discontinue dose.

Drug Interactions: Risk of photosensitivity when used with fluoroquinolones, phenothiazines, sulfonamides, tetracyclines, thiazides.

How Supplied: Gel: 0.05%, 0.1%

Dosage
?Gel Acne vulgaris, Psoriasis.
After skin is dry following cleaning, apply thin film (2 mg/cm ²) on lesions once daily in evening. Cover entire affected area. For psoriasis, do not apply to more than 20% of body surface area.