Tazorac is a topical retinoid, which means it is a vitamin A derivative.  Retinoids are what I would classify as one of the “harsher” types of drugs, since they affect immune system functionality and can thus result in some severe side effects.  Besides psoriasis, Tazorac is also commonly used to treat acne.  By my understanding, it is the topical equivalent of Accutane.

Chemists / pharmaceutical firms have developed a variety of different retinoids that have varying effects depending on the patient and their particular condition.  Tazorac’s active ingredient, tazarotene, is considered a “third generation” retinoid.

Administering retinoids via a topical solution may pose less health risks than taking them orally.  On the downside, people using Tazorac to treat psoriasis will inevitably see their symptoms return (sometimes months) after usage of this medication is stopped.  Several months of remission after stopping treatment is a long time compared to other topical psoriasis medications, but this still falls short of the goal, which is to be psoriasis free for life.

Tazorac comes in the form of a non-staining gel or a cream solution.  It was approved by the FDA in 1997 at which time it was hailed as a major breakthrough in topical skin treatment.

Tazorac has proven to be an effective psoriasis treatment as it regulates skin cell growth and keeps swelling down.  Some doctors even prescribe it alongside topical steroid treatments and have seen ever greater remissions.  It can be applied to any surface of the body including the scalp, though contact with more sensitive areas such as the eyelids is not recommended.

Tazorac is available only through a doctor’s prescription.  Tazarotene is also marketed under the brand names Avage and Zorac (also available by prescription only).

Side effects of using Tazorac include in dry and sometimes irritated skin.  Pregnant women should definitely not use Tazorac as this similar medications have been proven to cause birth defects.