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Tazorac |
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What is Tazorac and why is it 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. Tazorac is chemically related to vitamin A. 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? Follow your doctors directions for taking 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. Store Tazorac at room temperature. Are there any Tazorac side effects? Tazorac side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Tazorac side effects may include burning, dry skin, irritation, itching, skin pain, skin peeling, skin reddening, stinging, and worsening of psoriasis. Less common Tazorac side effects may include discoloration, rash, skin bleeding, skin cracking, skin inflammation, skin reddening due to sun-exposure, and swelling. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Tazorac? If Tazorac is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. 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 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), or Thiazide-type water pills (such as Dyazide and HydroDIURIL). Are there any 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 this drug have not been tested in children under 12. Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication 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 have been using such products, wait for their effects to disappear before using Tazorac. |
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