Tazarotene is a medication that works by slowing the growth of skin cells. This helps reduce scaly plaques that build up on the skin’s surface and also reduces inflammation in people with psoriasis. This medication is also used to treat acne and to improve the appearance of wrinkles. It is available as a generic drug and as the brand name Tazorac. Costs for both medications vary depending on your insurance coverage and pharmacy. Generic drugs are usually less expensive. If you are having trouble paying for your medication, ask your doctor if you can use an assistance program to help with the costs. You can also check with local pharmacies to see if they have any discounts available.
Tazarotene works by binding to specific nuclear retinoid receptors in your skin cells. It’s not known exactly how it treats psoriasis, but it’s thought that it reduces the production of skin cells that cause your immune system to overreact and produce plaques on the surface of the skin. It’s also not known how tazarotene affects other diseases or conditions that can occur in the skin.
Your doctor may recommend that you apply this medication to the affected area twice a day. You may also be directed to use emollients or other skin treatments in conjunction with this medication. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Be careful not to get the medication in your eyes or mouth. If you do, call your doctor right away. You should also avoid sun exposure and weather extremes, such as wind or cold, while using this medication.
The side effects of tazarotene cream are usually mild. They should go away on their own in a few days or weeks, but you should tell your doctor if they are severe or don’t go away. You should also tell your doctor if you have other symptoms, such as itching or redness in other areas of the body, or if your skin changes color or texture.
You should not use tazarotene if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This medication can pass into your breast milk and cause harm to a baby. It is also not safe for children younger than 12 years to use. Talk with your doctor before giving this medication to a child.
Some medications can increase your sensitivity to sunlight and cause a severe sunburn. You should avoid direct sun exposure or prolonged use of sun lamps and tanning beds while using this medication. If you must be outside, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen with a high SPF. If you do get a sunburn, you should not apply the medication to that area until it has healed. If you have a light skin tone, you may be particularly sensitive to this effect. tazarotene cream