Brand name:

Tazorac

Why is Tazorac prescribed?

Tazorac gel comes in two strengths, 0.05% and 0.1%. Both strengths are used to treat the type of psoriasis that causes large plaques on the skin. The 0.1% strength is also used to treat mild to moderate facial acne. The drug is chemically related to vitamin A.

Most important fact about Tazorac

Tazorac may cause severe birth defects. If you are a woman in your child-bearing years, do not use Tazorac if there is any chance that you are pregnant. Your doctor should give you a pregnancy test within 2 weeks of starting Tazorac therapy, and you should take reliable birth control measures as long as you use the drug. If you accidentally become pregnant, stop using Tazorac and call your doctor immediately.

How should you take Tazorac?

For psoriasis, apply a thin film of Tazorac to the affected areas each evening. Make sure your skin is dry before you begin. Keep the gel away from normal skin.

To treat acne, first wash your face and dry it thoroughly. Then apply a thin film of Tazorac to the acne eruptions. Repeat each evening.

--If you miss a dose...

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

Tazorac side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Tazorac.

• Side effects may include:
  Burning, dry skin, irritation, itching, skin pain, skin peeling, skin reddening, stinging, worsening of psoriasis

Why should Tazorac not be prescribed?

If Tazorac gives you an allergic reaction, you cannot continue using it.

Special warnings about Tazorac

Use Tazorac only on affected areas of the skin. Be careful to avoid your eyes and mouth. Tazorac is for external use only.

Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun or sunlamps while using Tazorac. Apply sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and wear protective clothing when you go into the sunlight. If you are normally sensitive to sunlight, be especially cautious. If you have a sunburn, wait until it heals before using Tazorac.

Tazorac may cause a temporary feeling of burning or stinging. If this irritation is excessive, or you develop extreme itching, burning, peeling, or reddening, stop using Tazorac and call your doctor. Do not restart therapy until your skin returns to normal. Never use Tazorac while your skin is inflamed.

While on Tazorac therapy, remember that extreme wind or cold may cause skin irritation.

The safety and effectiveness of Tazorac have not been tested in children under 12.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Tazorac Check with your doctor before combining Tazorac with other skin medications and cosmetics. Skin products that have a drying effect should not be used with Tazorac. If you've been using such products, wait for their effects to disappear before using Tazorac.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Tazorac

Certain drugs can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Check with your doctor before taking any other medication while using Tazorac, and be especially cautious when using the following:

Major tranquilizers such as Compazine, Stelazine, and Thorazine
Quinolone antibiotics such as Cipro, Floxin, and Noroxin
Sulfa drugs such as Bactrim and Septra
Tetracycline antibiotics such as Achromycin V, Minocin, and Vibramycin
Thiazide-type water pills such as Dyazide and HydroDIURIL

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Remember that Tazorac may cause birth defects and must never be used during pregnancy. Tazorac may appear in breast milk; use it with caution, if at all, while breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage for Tazorac

ADULTS

Overdosage

Excessive external use of Tazorac can cause redness, peeling, and skin discomfort. An oral overdose produces the same symptoms as an overdose of Vitamin A.

• Symptoms of ORAL Tazorac include:
  Abdominal pain, dizziness, dry or cracked lips, facial flushing, headache, lack of coordination and clumsiness, vomiting