Tazarotene
Tazarotene, sold as Tazorac, is a topical retinoid that slows the rapid cell buildup behind plaque psoriasis and acne. Tazorac 0.1% in a 15 gm tube is the only product on this shelf.
Key points
- Retinoid class: Tazarotene is a topical retinoid, a medicine that works on the skin’s own cell-renewal cycle rather than on inflammation or infection.
- Not a controlled substance: It carries no scheduling restrictions, so it is not subject to the same dispensing controls as some other medicines.
How does tazarotene work?
Tazarotene binds to specific receptors in skin cells and slows their rate of growth and shedding. In plaque psoriasis, the skin produces cells much faster than normal, creating thick, scaly patches. In acne vulgaris, clogged pores and excess turnover drive breakouts. By regulating that cycle, tazarotene brings cell turnover back toward normal. Tazorac, the brand-name product from Allergan, is the only tazarotene formulation listed in this Skin Care catalogue.