Tazarotene
Tazarotene is a topical retinoid prodrug used to treat plaque psoriasis and acne by normalizing skin cell differentiation and reducing inflammation. It converts to its active form in the skin, where it binds to retinoic acid receptors to regulate cell growth and reduce scaling.
A topical retinoid medication for psoriasis and acne that normalizes skin cell turnover.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D05AX05
- RxNorm
- 83947
- Generic
- Tazarotene
- Class
- atc-d05
- Brands
- Fabior, Duobrii, Tazorac, Arazlo, Trilitas
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- gel, cream
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- Apply thin film to affected area once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- Apply thin film to affected area once daily (age 12+)
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- Apply thin film to affected area once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid
avoid use while breastfeeding due to potential excretion in breast milk
monitor infant for skin irritation
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
children under 12not recommended
use only if clearly needed and prescribed by pediatrician
close supervision required
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyuse with caution
may have increased skin sensitivity start with lower frequency
monitor for skin irritation and dryness
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no dose adjustment required for topical formulation
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no dose adjustment required for topical formulation
standard monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
Initial FDA approval for tazarotene topical gel
Drug class
Third-generation topical retinoid
Common uses
Approved therapeutic indications
Mechanism of action
Binds to retinoic acid receptors to regulate cell differentiation and proliferation
Primarily used for plaque psoriasis (mild to moderate) and acne vulgaris. May also be used for photodamaged skin and other keratinization disorders.
Tazarotene is a retinoid prodrug converted to its active form (tazarotenic acid) in the skin via deesterification. The active metabolite binds to all three retinoic acid receptor subtypes (RARα, RARβ, RARɣ), regulating genes involved in cell differentiation, proliferation, and inflammation.
For topical use only. May cause local irritation, dryness, and increased photosensitivity—use sunscreen and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Contraindicated in pregnancy due to teratogenic potential. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. May reduce efficacy of other topical medications if used simultaneously.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy