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Tazarotene

  • Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected areas each evening before going to bed.
  • It is important that you don't become pregnant whilst using tazarotene. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice about contraception.

About tazarotene

Type of medicineRetinoid
Used forPlaque psoriasis
Also calledZorac®
Available asGel

Tazarotene is applied to the skin to treat plaque psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is a skin disorder caused by cells in the outer layer of the skin multiplying too quickly. As new skin cells are produced, old ones are shed. If this process is taking place too quickly, old skin cells build up on the skin surface causing red, scaly patches. Tazarotene helps to control psoriasis by slowing down the production of new skin cells.

Before using tazarotene

Before using tazarotene make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are under 18 years of age.
  • If you are taking or using other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use tazarotene

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Use your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Apply a thin layer of tazarotene to the affected area(s) before going to bed. Remember to wash your hands afterwards.
  • Tazarotene is usually used for up to 12 weeks.
  • Tazarotene should not be applied to the face, areas of skin that rub together such as the inside of the thighs, hairy areas, eczema or inflamed skin.
  • Avoid getting any of this preparation near the eyes. If any does get into the eyes, rinse the area thoroughly with warm water.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • If you are a woman, it is important not to become pregnant while you are using tazarotene. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice about suitable contraception.
  • If you think you may be pregnant while using tazarotene, stop using the gel and ask your doctor for advice.
  • Do not apply any make-up or moisturisers to the affected area(s) for at least one hour after applying tazarotene.
  • Tazarotene gel must not be applied to more than 10% (a tenth) of your total body surface.
  • Your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight while you are being treated with tazarotene. Do not use sunbeds or UV light treatments. Avoid the sun until you know how your skin reacts and if necessary use a suncream higher than factor 15.

Can tazarotene cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Possible side-effects What can I do if I experience this
Skin irritation, itching, redness, a burning sensation, peeling, rash or worsening of your conditionTry applying a thinner layer of gel, and avoid applying it to normal areas of skin. If this continues, speak with your doctor

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store tazarotene

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking or using.
  • If you suspect that you or someone else has swallowed any of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer's PIL, Zorac®, Allergan Ltd, electronic medicines Compendium. Revised 3 January 2007, accessed 10 April 2008.
  • British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008DocID:
3688		DocRef:
dils3655		Last Reviewed:
3 Jun 2008		Version:
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