Tazarotene

Tazorac is a prescription skin drug that is available in the form of a gel or a cream; it is used to treat plaque psoriasis, acne, and other conditions. Typically, the medication is applied to the affected areas once a day, in the evening. Although most people tolerate it well, side effects can include redness, itching, and dry, peeling skin.

What Is Tazarotene?

Tazarotene (Avage®, Tazorac®) is a prescription skin medication. Tazorac is approved for treating plaque psoriasis and acne, while Avage is approved to improve fine facial wrinkles and skin discoloration due to sun overexposure.
 
(Click What Is Tazarotene Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

What Are the Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, tazarotene may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
 
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
 
The most common side effects seen with tazarotene include:
 
  • Itching
  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Dry, peeling skin.
     
(Click Side Effects of Tazarotene to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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