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Tazorac (tazarotene)

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By Editorial Team

2 min read

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: September 2023 | Last updated: September 2023

Tazorac® (tazarotene) is a prescription topical treatment option for people with plaque psoriasis.1

Tazorac is available in different strengths. It may be prescribed in the form of a cream or gel.1,2

What are the ingredients in Tazorac?

The active ingredient in Tazorac is tazarotene.1

How does Tazorac work?

In people with psoriasis, chronic inflammation causes new skin cells to grow too quickly before they are needed. This leads to a buildup of older skin cells on the top layer of skin, which causes plaques to form.2

Tazorac is a type of drug known as a retinoid. It works by slowing down the production of new skin cells and decreasing skin cell inflammation that can lead to psoriasis symptoms.1,2

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What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects of Tazorac in people with psoriasis include:1

  • Itching
  • Redness
  • Burning

These are not all the possible side effects of Tazorac. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when using Tazorac. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when using Tazorac.

Other things to know

Before starting treatment with Tazorac, tell your doctor if you have eczema (atopic dermatitis) or any other skin problems.1

Tazorac can harm an unborn baby. You must not be pregnant when you start using Tazorac or become pregnant during treatment with Tazorac. If you are able to get pregnant:1

  • Your doctor will order a pregnancy test for you within 2 weeks before you begin treatment with Tazorac to be sure you are not pregnant.
  • Begin treatment with Tazorac during a normal menstrual period.
  • You should use birth control during treatment and for some time after the last dose of Tazorac. Talk to your doctor about your options for birth control while using Tazorac.

There is not enough data to know if Tazorac is safe to use while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about using Tazorac while breastfeeding.1

Use Tazorac exactly as your doctor tells you to. Wash your hands after applying Tazorac.1

Do not get Tazorac in your eyes, on your eyelids, or in your mouth. If Tazorac get in or near your eyes, rinse them well with water. Call your doctor if you have eye irritation that does not go away.1

Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds during treatment with Tazorac.1

Limit time in the sun during treatment with Tazorac, even if the medicine is not on your skin. If you need to be in sunlight after applying Tazorac, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Talk to your doctor if you get a sunburn during treatment with Tazorac.1

Avoid using cosmetics or topical medicines that may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight or making your skin dry during treatment with Tazorac.1

Avoid using Tazorac on unaffected skin or areas with eczema because it may cause severe irritation.1

Before beginning treatment for psoriasis, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs.

For more information, read the full prescribing information of Tazorac.