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Tazarotene
Indications Tazarotene is used to treat plaque psoriasis of the skin. It also works to treat acne on the face.
Therapeutic Class Topical retinoid and related preparations
Pharmacology Tazarotene is a retinoid prodrug which is converted to its active form, the cognate carboxylic acid of tazarotene, by rapid deesterification in animals and man. In cell culture and in vitro models of skin, tazarotene suppresses expression of MRP8, a marker of inflammation present in the epidermis of psoriasis patients at high levels. In human keratinocyte cultures, it inhibits cornified envelope formation, whose build-up is an element of the psoriatic scale.
Dosage & Administration For psoriasis: Tazarotene cream should be applied once per day, in the evening, to psoriatic lesions, using enough (2 mg/cm2) to cover only the lesion with a thin film. If a bath or shower is taken prior to application, the skin should be dried before applying the cream. If emollients are used, they should be applied at least one hour before application of Tazarotene cream. For acne: Cleanse the face gently. After the skin is dry, apply a thin layer (2mg/cm2) of Tazarotene cream 0.1% once per day, in the evening, to the skin areas where acne lesions appear. Use enough to cover the entire affected area.
Interaction Concomitant dermatologic medications and cosmetics that have a strong drying effect should be avoided. It is also advisable to "rest" a patient’s skin until the effects of such preparations subside before use of Tazarotene cream is begun. Topical steroid may be hazardous in psoriasis; careful patient supervision is important. Consider if infection spreads. Do not use near a naked flame.
Contraindications Retinoids may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Tazarotene cream is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, treatment should be discontinued and the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should be warned to the potential risk and use adequate birth-control measures when Tazarotene cream is used.
Use in Special Populations Pediatric Use: Studies of this medicine have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of Tazarotene in children up to 12 years of age (gel) and up to 18 years of age (cream) with use in other age groups. Elderly Use (Over 65 year): There is no specific information comparing the use of Tazarotene in the elderly with use in other age groups.
Overdose Effects Excessive topical use cause marked redness, peeling or discomfort. Accidental oral ingestion produces similar adverse effects as those associated with excessive oral intake of Vitamin A or other retinoids. Monitor and take supportive measures as necessary.
