tazarotene (Tazorac, Avage, Zorac)

Introduction

Tradename: Tazorac.

Indications

• psoriasis
• acne
• wrinkles
• hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation
• lentigo

Contraindications

• women who may become pregnant
• do not use on eczematous skin

pregnancy category = x

Dosage

apply QD-BID

Tazorac: 0.05%, 0.1% topical gel: 30 g, 100 g.

Avage: 0.1%

Adverse effects

• common (> 10%)
  • pruritus, burning, stinging, erythema, worsening of psoriasis, irritation, skin pain
• less common (1-10%)
  • rash, desquamation, irritant contact dermatitis, skin inflammation, fissuring, bleeding & dry skin, localized edema, skin discoloration
• other
  • increased susceptiblity to sunburn (use sunscreen & protective clothing)

Drug interactions

• avoid concurrent use of photosensitizers:
  • tetracyclines, thiazides, fluoroquinolones, phenothiazines, sulfonamides
• concurrent use of dermatologic medications & cosmetics that have a drying effect should be avoided

Mechanism of action

• retinoid
  • all retinoids reduce fine wrinkles, rough skin, brown spots
  • wrinkles reappear when retinoid is stopped
  • activates RARRES2 in psoriatic lesions

More general terms

• retinoid

Database

• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=5381