Drug info
Tazarotene (Topical)
Andrey Nailor, M.D.Published 3 January 20053 min read
Key points
- Treats psoriasis (silvery, scaly patches on the skin) and severe acne.
- Tazorac, Avage There may be other brand names for this medicine.
- You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tazarotene, or if you are pregnant or may become pregnant.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Tazarotene (On The Skin)
Tazarotene (taz-AR-oh-teen)
Treats psoriasis (silvery, scaly patches on the skin) and severe acne.
Brand Name(s):
Tazorac, Avage
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tazarotene, or if you are pregnant or may become pregnant.
How to Use This Medicine:
Cream, Gel/Jelly
- Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to apply and how often. Do not use more medicine or apply it more often than your doctor tells you to.
- This medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you do, rinse the area right away with plenty of water. If you are using this medicine on your hands, be careful to not touch your eyes after applying this medicine. Do not use on skin areas that have cuts, scrapes, sunburn, or an itchy, scaly, red rash called eczema.
- Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine, unless you are treating skin areas on your hands. Wash off any medicine that gets on skin areas that do not need to be treated.
- To treat acne: Gently wash and dry your face. Apply a thin layer of medicine to cover all of the skin where the acne usually occurs.
- To treat psoriasis: Make sure your skin is completely dry before applying the medicine. Apply a thin layer only to the affected area. Rub it in gently. If you use any kind of lotion or cream on your skin, apply it at least 1 hour before applying this medicine.
- Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless your doctor has told you to.
- Never share your medicine with anyone.
If a dose is missed::
- If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, do not try to make up the dose. Apply your next dose at the usual time.
- Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
- Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Keep the tube tightly closed.
- Keep all medicine away from children.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
