Tazarotene is a topical (skin) medication that reduces fine facial wrinkles, dark and light spots on the skin, and acne and plaque psoriasis. It is in a class of medications called retinoids and works by changing the way the skin cells grow. It also helps to remove excess skin cells. Tazarotene is available as a cream, lotion, and foam. It is usually applied to the face once daily in the evening. This medication should not be used during pregnancy or by women who could become pregnant. It contains a type of drug known as a teratogen, which can harm a developing baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before starting this medication. This medication may make your skin sensitive to sunlight and cold weather. Use sunscreen and wear clothing that covers your skin when going outside.
Tazorac is a stronger and more potent retinoid than Retin-A. It has been shown in studies to be effective at reducing fine facial wrinkles, mottled hyper- and hypopigmentation, and benign facial lentigines (liver spots). In addition, it is more stable in the presence of sunlight than other retinoids and has been shown to have fewer side effects. It has also been shown to work better for psoriasis and acne than Retin-A in one study.
In people with plaque psoriasis, the immune system over-produces skin cells and builds them up in thick, scaly patches on the surface of the skin. Tazarotene slows down the production of skin cells and decreases inflammation in the skin, which helps to reduce the thickness and severity of the scaly patches. It also relieves redness and itching in the skin associated with psoriasis.
It takes 1 to 2 weeks for the medication to start working in people with psoriasis. It can take up to 12 weeks for the medication to have its full effect in people with psoriasis. For acne, the medication starts to work within a few days.
The medication is converted to tazarotenic acid in the body and excreted in faeces. It is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. It is converted to active tazarotene in the skin.
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Before using this medication, read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist. Apply a thin layer of the gel, lotion, or foam to the affected area(s) of the skin once daily in the evening. If you are using tazarotene foam, first clean the skin with a mild cleanser and let it dry completely before applying the medication.
Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use. Keep this medication out of reach of children. If the medication drips from the container, wash it off with water and a damp cloth. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about how to store this medication. Contact your doctor if you notice any side effects that bother you or do not go away after a few days of treatment. buy tazarotene