Concomitant dermatologic medications and cosmetics that have a strong drying effect should be avoided. It is also advisable to "rest" a patient’s skin until the effects of such preparations subside before use of Tazarotene cream is begun. Topical steroid may be hazardous in psoriasis; careful patient supervision is important. Consider if infection spreads. Do not use near a naked flame.
The most frequent adverse events reported with Tazarotene cream were limited to the skin. Those occurring in 10 to 23% of patients, in descending order, included pruritus, erythema and burning. For acne treatment, in 10 to 30% patients, it is reported desquamation, dry skin, face pain, irritation and stinging sensation.
Pregnancy: Tazarotene is not recommended during pregnancy. It has been shown to cause serious birth defects and problems in animals. Be sure you have discussed this with your doctor.
Nursing Mothers: It is not known whether tazarotene passes into breast milk. However, Tazarotene is not recommended during breast-feeding because it may cause unwanted effects in nursing babies.
Tazarotene cream should be applied only to the affected areas. For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, eyelids and mouth. If contact with eyes occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Retinoids should not be used on eczematous skin, as they may cause severe irritation. Patients must be warned to use sunscreens and protective clothing when using Tazarotene cream. Some individuals may experience excessive pruritus, burning, skin redness or peeling. If these effects occur, the medication should either be discontinued until the integrity of the skin is restored, or the dosing should be reduced
Pediatric Use: Studies of this medicine have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of Tazarotene in children up to 12 years of age (gel) and up to 18 years of age (cream) with use in other age groups.
Elderly Use (Over 65 year): There is no specific information comparing the use of Tazarotene in the elderly with use in other age groups.
Excessive topical use cause marked redness, peeling or discomfort. Accidental oral ingestion produces similar adverse effects as those associated with excessive oral intake of Vitamin A or other retinoids. Monitor and take supportive measures as necessary.
