Tazarotene cream is a prescription medication that’s used to treat psoriasis and acne. It’s in a class of drugs called retinoids and it works by changing the way that your skin cells grow and work. It reduces plaque psoriasis and helps clear up acne by reducing inflammation in the skin. It also boosts collagen production and can decrease fine wrinkles and mottled hyperpigmentation in the skin. It’s also been shown to help with atopic dermatitis (eczema) and can help with dry eye syndrome.
Tazarotene is available in a cream, gel, and foam form. It’s an FDA-approved drug that can be used by adults to treat both psoriasis and acne. There are some conditions that you must meet before using this medication. You can’t use it if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because it contains a type of drug that can harm a developing fetus. You should also avoid this medicine if you have certain medical conditions, including liver disease or diabetes.
You shouldn’t apply tazarotene to open wounds or broken skin, because it may cause irritation. It’s also important to keep it away from your eyes, lips, nose, and mouth. If you get any of the medication in these areas, wash it off right away.
The most common side effects of tazarotene are itching, redness, scaly skin, and a burning sensation. These side effects can be mild or severe and they should go away after a few days or a couple of weeks. If they don’t go away, talk to your doctor.
If you have a history of liver disease or diabetes, your doctor may monitor your blood sugar and blood cholesterol levels while you’re taking this medication. It’s also important to tell your doctor if you have any other health conditions, especially heart problems or depression. You should not use this medication if you’re allergic to tazarotene or any other ingredients in the cream, foam, or gel. This includes other prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Most people with psoriasis notice improvement within 1 to 4 weeks of starting treatment. They typically see a 50% reduction in their psoriasis symptoms. The medication can be taken alone or with other psoriasis treatments, such as topical steroids and light therapy.
You should not use tazarotene to treat children with plaque psoriasis. It’s not approved for that use and it could lead to serious harm. If you’re treating your child with this medication, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions exactly.
The cost of tazarotene can vary, depending on your insurance plan and the pharmacy you choose to use. You may be able to get a 90-day supply of the medication, which can make it easier to budget for the cost. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of getting a 90-day supply, and ask about mail order options. If you’re on Medicare, your insurance plan may cover the cost of tazarotene. This could save you money and reduce the number of trips you have to make to the pharmacy. tazarotene cream