Tazarotene

TAZAROTENE - TOPICAL (tah-ZAIR-oh-teen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Tazorac

USES: This medication is used to treat psoriasis or acne.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: For external use only. Clean and dry the affected area of skin and apply a thin layer once daily in the evening. Follow doctor's instructions exactly as stated on the prescription label. Do not use more than directed and do not apply to unaffected skin, eyes/eyelids or in the mouth. Do not cover treated area with dressings or bandages. If contact with eyes occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Wash hands after using unless you are treating a hand problem. Psoriasis conditions will usually improve within one to four weeks but redness may take longer to improve. In acne conditions this drug is generally used for up to 12 weeks or as directed.

SIDE EFFECTS: Generally, the possible skin side effects are mild to moderate. Itching, burning/stinging, redness, irritation, swelling, dryness or skin pain may occur. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor promptly if worsening of the original skin problem, rash, cracking, discoloration or bleeding of the skin occur. Also, promptly report severe redness, irritation or burning/stinging. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including any allergies (especially drug allergies) or other skin conditions (such as eczema, sunburn or sun sensitivity history). Protective clothing and sunscreens (minimum SPF 15) are advised during the day. Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible, and avoid sunlamps completely. This drug can result in sun sensitivity (sunburn-type effect). This drug must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Women who could become pregnant are advised to use adequate birth control when this drug is used. Consult your doctor.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription or prescription medication you may use, especially other drugs that can cause sun sensitivity such as thiazide water pills (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide), tetracycline, sulfa or quinolone (e.g., ciprofloxacin) antibiotics , phenothiazine-type psychiatric medication), any other skin products or drugs with a strong drying effect, high alcohol content, medicated soaps or vitamin A products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include increased redness, peeling, and discomfort.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from sunlight and moisture.