Tazorac

Anti-wrinkle Agents, Rx
Topical Retinoids for Acne

Women of childbearing potential should have a negative pregnancy test within 2 weeks prior to beginning tazarotene treatment. Tazarotene treatment should begin during a normal menstrual period.
Tazarotene is administered topically to the skin. Because unaffected skin may be more susceptible to irritation, application to unaffected areas should be carefully avoided. Avoid contact with the eyes and mouth. Do not use on eczematous or abraded skin as severe irritation may occur.
Application may cause excessive irritation in the skin of certain sensitive individuals. If therapy must be temporarily discontinued or if the dosing needs to be reduced to an interval that the patient can tolerate, therapy may be resumed, or the frequency of application may be increased as the patient becomes able to tolerate the treatment.
For external use only. Avoid contact with mouth, eyes, paranasal creases, and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse well with water.
Wash hands thoroughly after application.
 
Facial wrinkles (Avage):
If emollients or moisturizers are used, they can be applied either before or after application of tazarotene cream ensuring that the first cream or lotion has absorbed into the skin and has dried completely.
Tazarotene should be used for facial wrinkles as adjunct to a proper skin care and sunlight avoidance program, including the use of effective sunscreens (minimum SPF 15) and protective clothing.
 
Acne vulgaris (Arazlo, Fabior, or Tazorac):
Avoid concurrent use with medications and cosmetics that have a strong drying effect. According to the manufacturers of Fabior foam and Arazol lotion, moisturizers may be used as needed; no specific recommendation is provided by the manufacturer of Tazorac.
The manufacturer of Arazlo lotion recommends use of effective sunscreens and protective clothing to cover the treated areas. Avoid application on sunburnt skin.
For tazarotene foam (Fabior), apply enough foam to lightly cover the affected areas with a thin layer. Gently massage the foam into the skin until it disappears.
 
Psoriasis (Tazorac):
If a bath or shower is taken prior to application, ensure the skin is dry before applying tazarotene.
If emollients are used, apply the emollient at least 1 hour before application of tazarotene.

erythema / Early / 2.0-49.0
bleeding / Early / 1.0-10.0
contact dermatitis / Delayed / 1.0-10.0
edema / Delayed / 1.0-10.0
peripheral edema / Delayed / 1.0-10.0
hypertriglyceridemia / Delayed / 1.1-9.9

skin irritation / Early / 1.0-30.0
pruritus / Rapid / 1.0-30.0
xerosis / Delayed / 1.0-16.0
rash / Early / 1.0-10.0
skin discoloration / Delayed / 1.0-10.0
cheilitis / Delayed / 1.0-1.0
photosensitivity / Delayed / 10.0
urticaria / Rapid / Incidence not known
skin hyperpigmentation / Delayed / Incidence not known
skin hypopigmentation / Delayed / Incidence not known

ARAZLO, Fabior, TAZORAC

Rx

Retinoid prodrug
Used for psoriasis, acne, and facial wrinkles and pigmentation changes primarily due to photoaging
Contraindicated in pregnancy; females of childbearing potential should use adequate birth control

Apply a thin layer (2 mg/cm2) topically to the affected skin area(s) once daily. Start treatment with 0.05% and increase to 0.1% if tolerated and needed. Guidelines recommend tazarotene for mild to moderate skin psoriasis and nail psoriasis. The use of mid- or high-potency topical corticosteroid in combination with tazarotene for 8 to 16 weeks is more effective than monotherapy with tazarotene and is recommended for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis; the use of corticosteroids in combination with tazarotene decreases the duration of treatment as well as increases the length of remission. The combination of topical tazarotene and narrow band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) has been shown to be effective and allow a reduction in total use of NB-UVB.

Apply a thin layer (2 mg/cm2) topically to the affected skin area(s) once daily. Start treatment with 0.05% and increase to 0.1% if tolerated and needed. Guidelines recommend tazarotene for mild to moderate skin psoriasis and nail psoriasis. The use of mid- or high-potency topical corticosteroid in combination with tazarotene for 8 to 16 weeks is more effective than monotherapy with tazarotene and is recommended for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis; the use of corticosteroids in combination with tazarotene decreases the duration of treatment as well as increases the length of remission. The combination of topical tazarotene and narrow band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) has been shown to be effective and allow a reduction in total use of NB-UVB.

Apply a thin layer (2 mg/cm2) topically to the affected skin area(s) once daily. Start treatment with 0.05% and increase to 0.1% if tolerated and needed. Guidelines recommend tazarotene as monotherapy or in combination with topical corticosteroids for the treatment of localized pediatric skin or nail psoriasis.

Cleanse the face gently. After the skin is dry, apply a thin film (2 mg/cm2) once daily, in the evening, to the skin where acne lesions appear. Use enough to cover the entire affected area. The use of tazarotene has not been studied beyond 12 weeks.

Cleanse the face gently. After the skin is dry, apply a thin film (2 mg/cm2) once daily, in the evening, to the skin where acne lesions appear. Use enough to cover the entire affected area. The use of tazarotene has not been studied beyond 12 weeks.

Wash the area to be treated with a mild cleanser. After the skin is dry, apply a thin layer to the affected areas of the face or upper trunk once daily in the evening. Gently massage the foam into the skin until it disappears. The frequency of application should be reduced or interrupted if excessive irritation occurs (e.g., redness, peeling, discomfort). Treatment may be resumed once irritation subsides; however, treatment should be discontinued if irritation persists.

Wash the area to be treated with a mild cleanser. After the skin is dry, apply a thin layer to the affected areas of the face or upper trunk once daily in the evening. Gently massage the foam into the skin until it disappears. The frequency of application should be reduced or interrupted if excessive irritation occurs (e.g., redness, peeling, discomfort). Treatment may be resumed once irritation subsides; however, treatment should be discontinued if irritation persists.

Apply a thin layer to the affected areas once daily.

Apply a thin layer to the affected areas once daily.

Cleanse face gently. After the skin is dry, apply a pea-sized amount once daily before bedtime to lightly cover the entire face, including the eyelids if desired. Frequency of application should be monitored by careful observation of the therapeutic response and skin tolerance.

Specific guidelines for dosage adjustments in hepatic impairment are not available; it appears that no dosage adjustments are needed for topical administration.

No dosage adjustments are needed for topical administration.

Adapalene; Benzoyl Peroxide: (Moderate) Concomitant use of tazarotene and dermatologic products containing benzoyl peroxide should be avoided. The manufacturer suggests that a patient's skin rest until the effects of such preparations subside before using tazarotene. When used together as part of acne therapy, these medications should be used separately at different times of the day to minimize skin irritation, unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. If skin irritation occurs, a decrease in dose or frequency of one or both agents may be necessary.
Aliskiren; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Amiloride; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Aminolevulinic Acid: (Moderate) Tazarotene may increase the effects of photosensitizing agents used during photodynamic therapy; concurrent use of photosensitizing agents is often recommended against by the specific photodynamic therapy, or doses of the therapy may require adjustment.
Amlodipine; Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Atenolol; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Azilsartan; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Benazepril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Benzoyl Peroxide: (Moderate) Concomitant use of tazarotene and dermatologic products containing benzoyl peroxide should be avoided. The manufacturer suggests that a patient's skin rest until the effects of such preparations subside before using tazarotene. When used together as part of acne therapy, these medications should be used separately at different times of the day to minimize skin irritation, unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. If skin irritation occurs, a decrease in dose or frequency of one or both agents may be necessary.
Benzoyl Peroxide; Clindamycin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of tazarotene and dermatologic products containing benzoyl peroxide should be avoided. The manufacturer suggests that a patient's skin rest until the effects of such preparations subside before using tazarotene. When used together as part of acne therapy, these medications should be used separately at different times of the day to minimize skin irritation, unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. If skin irritation occurs, a decrease in dose or frequency of one or both agents may be necessary.
Benzoyl Peroxide; Erythromycin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of tazarotene and dermatologic products containing benzoyl peroxide should be avoided. The manufacturer suggests that a patient's skin rest until the effects of such preparations subside before using tazarotene. When used together as part of acne therapy, these medications should be used separately at different times of the day to minimize skin irritation, unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. If skin irritation occurs, a decrease in dose or frequency of one or both agents may be necessary.
Benzoyl Peroxide; Sulfur: (Moderate) Concomitant use of tazarotene and dermatologic products containing benzoyl peroxide should be avoided. The manufacturer suggests that a patient's skin rest until the effects of such preparations subside before using tazarotene. When used together as part of acne therapy, these medications should be used separately at different times of the day to minimize skin irritation, unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. If skin irritation occurs, a decrease in dose or frequency of one or both agents may be necessary.
Bisoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Candesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Captopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Chlorothiazide: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Chlorpromazine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Chlorpropamide: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Chlorthalidone; Clonidine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Ciprofloxacin: (Moderate) Use tazarotene with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as ciprofloxacin, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Codeine; Phenylephrine; Promethazine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Codeine; Promethazine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Enalapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Eprosartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Fluphenazine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Fosinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Gemifloxacin: (Moderate) Use tazarotene with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as gemifloxacin, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Glimepiride: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Glipizide: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Glipizide; Metformin: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Glyburide: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Glyburide; Metformin: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Griseofulvin: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as griseofulvin, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Methyldopa: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Moexipril: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Indapamide: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Irbesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Levofloxacin: (Moderate) Use tazarotene with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as levofloxacin, due to the increased possibility of augmented phototoxicity.
Lisinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Losartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Methyclothiazide: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Metolazone: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Metoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Moxifloxacin: (Moderate) Use tazarotene with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as moxifloxacin, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Ofloxacin: (Moderate) Use tazarotene with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as ofloxacin, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Olmesartan; Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Olmesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Perphenazine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Perphenazine; Amitriptyline: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Phenothiazines: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Photosensitizing agents (topical): (Moderate) Tazarotene may increase the effects of photosensitizing agents used during photodynamic therapy; concurrent use of photosensitizing agents is often recommended against by the specific photodynamic therapy, or doses of the therapy may require adjustment.
Pioglitazone; Glimepiride: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Prochlorperazine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Promethazine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Promethazine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Promethazine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Propranolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Quinapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Spironolactone; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
St. John's Wort, Hypericum perforatum: (Moderate) In theory it is possible that additive photosensitizing effects may result from the concomitant use of St. John's wort with other photosensitizing drugs such as retinoids.
Sulfonylureas: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Telmisartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Tetracyclines: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as tetracyclines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Thiazide diuretics: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Thioridazine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Tolazamide: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Tolbutamide: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as sulfonylureas, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Tretinoin; Benzoyl Peroxide: (Moderate) Concomitant use of tazarotene and dermatologic products containing benzoyl peroxide should be avoided. The manufacturer suggests that a patient's skin rest until the effects of such preparations subside before using tazarotene. When used together as part of acne therapy, these medications should be used separately at different times of the day to minimize skin irritation, unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. If skin irritation occurs, a decrease in dose or frequency of one or both agents may be necessary.
Triamterene; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Trifluoperazine: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.
Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) The manufacturer states that tazarotene should be administered with caution in patients who are also taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, such as thiazide diuretics, as concomitant use may augment phototoxicity. Patients should take care and use proper techniques to limit sunlight and UV exposure of treated areas.

ARAZLO Topical Lotion: 0.045%
Fabior/Tazarotene Topical Foam: 0.1%
Tazarotene/TAZORAC Topical Cream: 0.05%, 0.1%
Tazarotene/TAZORAC Topical Gel: 0.05%, 0.1%

1 application per day topically.

1 application per day topically.

17 years: 1 application per day topically.
less than 17 years: 1 application per day topically; safety and efficacy of Avage 0.1% cream have not been established.

12 years: 1 application per day topically; safety and efficacy of Avage 0.1% cream have not been established.
9 to 12 years: 1 application per day topically for Arazlo 0.045% lotion; safety and efficacy of other formulations have not been established
less than 9 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Retinoids are intracrine and paracrine mediators of cell differentiation and proliferation, apoptosis (programmed cell death), and reproduction. Cells regulate the formation of specific retinoid isomers depending upon the cellular action required. The numerous effects of retinoids reflect the complex biology of the nuclear receptors that mediate retinoid activity.
 
Retinoids exert their effects through binding to specific nuclear retinoid receptors, which are members of the steroid-thyroid superfamily of nuclear receptors. Retinoid receptors are divided into retinoid X receptors (RXRs) and retinoic acid receptors (RARs); both types can be further divided into 3 subtypes: Alpha, beta, and gamma. These receptor subtypes are further divided into many isoforms. Retinoid receptors are structurally similar but have different affinities for different types of retinoids and distribution varies throughout the body resulting in a wide range of actions. Following topical application, tazarotene undergoes esterase hydrolysis to the active form, tazarotenic acid (AGN 190299), which is the cognate carboxylic acid of tazarotene. This active metabolite binds to all three members of the RAR family (e.g., RAR-alpha, RAR-beta, RAR-gamma), but shows relative specificity for beta and gamma subtypes. Tazarotene has multiple effects on keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation, as well as inflammation processes that contribute to psoriasis; however, the exact mechanism of action is unclear. In animal studies, topical tazarotene blocks induction of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity, which is associated with cell proliferation and expression. In vitro skin models and cell cultures show that tazarotene suppresses expression of MRP8, a marker of inflammation present in high levels in the epidermis of psoriasis patients and inhibits cornified envelope formation, whose build-up is an element of psoriasis scale expression. Tazarotene also induces the expression of TIG3 (tazarotene-induced gene 3), a suppressor gene that may inhibit epidermal hyperproliferation in treated plaques. Tazarotene appears to decrease fine wrinkles and mottled hyperpigmentation in facial skin by increasing the number of granular cell layers and causing epidermal edema.

Tazarotene is administered topically to the skin. Minimal systemic absorption occurs because of rapid metabolism in the skin to the active metabolite, tazarotenic acid, which is systemically absorbed and further metabolized. Tazarotenic acid is hydrophilic and is quickly metabolized systemically, causing no apparent accumulation within body tissues. Greater than 99% of tazarotenic acid is bound to plasma proteins. Metabolism of tazarotene to tazarotenic acid occurs via esterase hydrolysis in skin; tazarotenic acid is further metabolized in skin and, after systemic absorption, hepatically metabolized to sulfoxides, sulfones, and other metabolites for elimination via fecal and renal pathways. Tazarotenic acid exhibits a half-life of approximately 18 hours in both normal and psoriatic patients.
 
Affected cytochrome P450 isoenzymes: none

Systemic tazarotene exposures were evaluated in 28 subjects (age 9 years and older) with moderate to severe acne who received approximately 4 grams of the 0.045% lotion topically once daily for 14 days. Most of the collected tazarotene (parent drug) samples had concentrations that were below the limit of quantification (0.005 ng/mL). The mean Cmax and AUC for tazarotene from quantifiable samples were 0.007 ng/mL and 0.164 ng x hour/mL on day 14 to 15, respectively. For tazarotenic acid (active metabolite), concentrations were measurable in most samples following single and repeated topical administrations. The mean Cmax and AUC for tazarotenic acid from quantifiable samples were 0.365 ng/mL and 5.72 ng x hour/mL on day 14 to 15, respectively.

Tazarotene is contraindicated for use during pregnancy and in women who may become pregnant. To ensure tazarotene is not given during pregnancy, the drug should be initiated during a normal menstrual period. Retinoids may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. During animal pregnancy studies, topical doses of tazarotene 1- to 26-times the human topical dose were associated with known retinoid malformations such as spina bifida, hydrocephaly, and heart abnormalities. Six pregnant women who were inadvertently exposed to tazarotene gel during clinical trials subsequently delivered healthy babies. As the exact timing and extent of exposure in relation to gestation are not known, the significance of these findings is not known. If tazarotene is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, treatment should be discontinued and the patient apprised of the potential risks to the fetus.

Because retinoids may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women, females of childbearing potential must undergo pregnancy testing within 2 weeks prior to starting tazarotene treatment. In addition, effective contraception requirements are recommended for females of reproductive potential. If tazarotene is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, treatment should be discontinued and the patient apprised of the potential risks to the fetus.