Tazarotene cream is used to treat acne and plaque psoriasis. It works by slowing skin cell turnover. It also helps reduce facial wrinkling and discoloration. It is part of a class of medications called retinoids.
The active ingredient in tazarotene is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A. It is converted to a metabolite that binds to the retinoid A receptors (RARs) in the skin and increases epidermal thickness. This metabolite also blocks induction of the gene that encodes for ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), which is involved in keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation. It also inhibits cornified envelope formation, which contributes to psoriasis scale build-up. It may also decrease inflammatory reactions such as erythema, redness and itching.
Some mild side effects from tazarotene can include burning, itching and peeling of the skin. If these symptoms persist, talk to your doctor. The doctor might switch you to a lower strength product or change the frequency of application. If these symptoms are severe, you should stop the medication and seek medical attention right away.
You should avoid exposure to sunlight while using this medication. If you do have to be in the sun, use sunscreen.
Talk to your doctor about whether this medication is safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is known to enter rodent milk, so it should probably not be used during these periods. It’s also not known if it passes through human breast milk.
If you’re concerned about the cost of tazarotene cream, ask your doctor and insurance company about mail-order options. If you qualify, you can get a 90-day supply, which could save you time and money at the pharmacy.
Tazarotene is in a class of medications called retinoids. It’s an effective treatment for acne and plaque psoriasis. Studies have shown that tazarotene helps decrease facial wrinkling and discoloration, too. However, it’s not approved by the FDA for this purpose. Other medications, such as topical steroids, can treat the same conditions just as well and are often much cheaper. tazarotene cream