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Tazarotene

Retinoid · Dermatological Agent

RetinoidDermatological Agent
CDSCO approvedSchedule H
EXCRETION
not curated
INTERACTIONS
1 major
SEVERE in our sources
PREGNANCY
not curated
Top interactions
  • Aminolevulinic AcidSevereDatabaseDDInter

Mechanism

Tazarotene, a third-generation retinoid, exerts its effects on gene expression by activating retinoic acid receptors (RARs), which are members of the steroid receptor superfamily. Upon binding, RARs form heterodimers with retinoid X receptors (RXRs), which then bind to specific DNA sequences called retinoic acid–responsive elements (RAREs). This binding activates the transcription of genes whose products predominantly affect cellular differentiation and proliferation, leading to its therapeutic effects.

Indications

Chronic stable plaque psoriasis on extensor surfaces of trunk and limbsPsoriasisAcnePhotoagingDisorders of differentiation and proliferationPsoriasis (moderately effective)Acne vulgaris

Dosing

Adult
0.5-1 g given over 2-3 hours. More rapid infusion has been associated with increased rates of hypotension, electrolyte shifts, and. 0.5-2 mg/kg/day. 0.25-1 mg/kg/day. 0.5-1 mg/kg/day. 300 mg/m2/day

Contraindications

  • Application to the face
  • Application in flexures
  • Inflammatory forms of psoriasis
  • During an inflammatory phase of psoriasis
  • If significant irritation occurs
  • Pregnancy (teratogenic)

Side effects

Common
IrritationSkin irritationBurning sensationPeeling

Drug interactions

Aminolevulinic Acid
Severe
Database

Clinical effect not specified

Source: DDInter

5 additional low-confidence interactions hidden — those rows lack a documented mechanism or management plan in our sources.

Related guidelines

Other Retinoid drugs

Ask House about Tazarotene

Continue into a citation-backed clinical answer with the drug context already attached.

Sources: KD Tripathi 7e·Verified: 2026-05-10 · House clinical team