Tazarotene uk is an anti-aging medication that works to improve skin texture, fade dark spots and wrinkles, and treat acne, psoriasis and sun damaged skin. It is in a class of medications called retinoids, which are similar to Vitamin A and work by affecting how the body makes skin cells. Currently, tazarotene is only available with a prescription from your doctor. Depending on the condition you are treating, your doctor may prescribe different brand, dosage forms and strength of medication. You should always read the patient information leaflet that comes with this medication, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
This medication is usually applied to the skin once a day, at least 30 minutes before you go out into sunlight. You should apply it to clean, dry skin. You can use moisturizers on your skin, but wait until after the tazarotene is completely absorbed into the skin (usually 1 hour).
The FDA has approved tazarotene to treat certain conditions, including acne and psoriasis. It is also used off-label for other purposes, such as reducing facial wrinkling and discoloration. Using a drug for a purpose not approved by the FDA is known as “off-label drug use.”
Before you start treatment with tazarotene, tell your doctor if you are allergic to it; or to any other medications, especially any other retinoids or other vitamins A-related medicines, such as acitretinib (Isotretinoin) and others. Also tell your doctor if you have any other medical condition, especially if you have diabetes or a family history of skin cancer.
Tazarotene can be a safe and effective treatment for many patients. However, it can cause serious side effects in some people. It can increase your risk of getting a sunburn, and you should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun or artificial sunlamps while you are taking this medication. You should use sunscreen with a high SPF when you do go outside.
You should avoid alcohol while you are taking this medication. It can trigger flare-ups of acne and psoriasis in some patients, and it can interact with other medications you take by mouth, such as birth control pills and antibiotics.
Keep this medication out of the reach of children and away from heat and moisture, not in the bathroom. Store it at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). You should not freeze this medicine. It is flammable, so do not store it near something that can catch fire. If this medication has expired, ask your pharmacist about how long it will remain good. After opening, you should not reuse it. Keep it in the original container, tightly closed and out of light. The expiration date is on the package. Ask your pharmacist about a new one when you refill this medication. Medications do not work as well after they are expired, so do not use them past that date. You can recycle empty drug containers in some communities.