Do you also have acne on your face and are you tired of using one thing after another? Sometimes this acne problem can be a little more complicated than you think. Did a doctor prescribe you a medicine called Tazarotene as a treatment for acne? So today we will talk about this medicine, its action, things to be careful about while using it, and its side effects. I will explain this in a simple way that you can understand, just like a doctor would explain it to your friend.
Let's first see, what is Tazarotene?
Simply put, Tazarotene is a medication used to treat acne. It belongs to a class of medications called retinoids . Have you heard of vitamin A? Retinoids are a type of medication that is made from vitamin A. They can come in the form of a lotion, cream, or gel.
This medication works by controlling the rate of skin cell growth and preventing dead skin cells from clogging pores. Clogged pores are a major cause of acne. Tazarotene addresses that problem. It also helps reduce inflammation in the skin.
The most important thing is, this is not a medicine you can buy over the counter at a pharmacy. This is a prescription medicine that must be prescribed by a doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using the medicine
Your doctor will ask you a few questions before giving you this medicine, but it is very important that you inform your doctor about these things.
- Sun sensitivity: Does your skin get red and burn easily when exposed to the sun? If so, tell us about it.
- Skin cancer: Have you or anyone in your family ever had skin cancer? This is very important information.
- Other skin conditions: Do you have other skin conditions, such as eczema? If so, this medicine may not be suitable.
- Allergies: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to tazarotene, vitamin A, or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- Pregnancy: This medicine is strictly prohibited to use if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or have even the slightest suspicion of pregnancy . We will discuss this in more detail.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, tell your doctor about it as well.
How exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this medicine, you need to know how to use it correctly.
1. For topical use only: This is not a medicine to be taken orally. Do not get it in your mouth or eyes.
2. Cleanse the skin: Before applying the medication, wash the face or affected area with a mild, soap-free cleanser, pat dry with a soft towel, and let it dry thoroughly. Do not apply to wet skin.
3. Apply a small amount: If you are applying it to your entire face, a pea-sized amount is enough . Applying too much will not help you heal faster, and may only increase side effects.
4. Apply as a thin layer: Apply a small amount to the affected areas in a thin layer. Do not rub in thoroughly.
5. Wash your hands: After applying the medicine, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
6. With other medications: If you are using other medications (e.g. moisturizer), ask your doctor about it. It is usually advised to apply a moisturizer 20-30 minutes after applying Tazarotene.
Can it be used by small children?
In some special cases, this medicine can be prescribed to children as young as 9 years old under the supervision of a doctor. However, special precautions must be followed.
What to do if you miss a medication or take too much?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not use double doses.
If you accidentally take too much of this medicine, or if someone drinks it, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Unit (ETU) immediately.
Other things that may interact with Tazarotene
Tazarotene can interact with other medications or creams you are using, so it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
| What can cause problems? | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Other cosmetics that dry the skin | Other acne medications that contain Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid . Using these at the same time can cause excessive dryness, redness, and inflammation of the skin. Your doctor may tell you to use one in the morning and the other at night. |
| Medications that increase sun sensitivity | Some antibiotics (e.g. Tetracycline , Ciprofloxacin) and other medications can make the skin sensitive to the sun. It is important to protect yourself from the sun when using these with Tazarotene. |
| Vitamin A supplements | Since tazarotene is also a derivative of vitamin A, if you take separate vitamin A supplements, you may have too much vitamin A in your body and experience side effects. So talk to your doctor about it. |
Things to be especially careful about when using this medicine!
This section is very important. Please pay close attention.
Pregnancy and birth control
Avoid becoming pregnant while taking tazarotene. This medicine can cause serious birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine if you are trying to get pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Your doctor will ask you to take a pregnancy test before starting this medicine. It is important to use reliable birth control during treatment.
Sun protection
When using this medicine, your skin becomes very sensitive to the sun (photosensitive). This means that your skin may turn red and burn very quickly.
- Be sure to apply a good sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily.
- Minimize exposure to direct sunlight as much as possible.
- When going outside, use a hat, an umbrella, and wear long-sleeved clothing.
- Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds.
Protecting eyes and sensitive areas
Do not let this medicine get into your eyes, mouth, inside your nostrils, or on any cuts or scratches. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse thoroughly with clean water.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Tazarotene can cause side effects. But don't worry, not everyone gets them.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing. If any of these occur, do not take the medicine again and see a doctor immediately. |
| Severe skin reactions | Unbearable burning, itching, peeling, or blistering of the skin where the medicine is applied. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Mild skin dryness and redness | It is normal for the skin to become slightly dry, red, and flaky during the first few weeks of treatment. This usually subsides within a few days. |
| Sun sensitivity | Skin turns red quickly when exposed to the sun. This can be controlled by using sunscreen. |
How do you keep this medicine safe?
Keep this out of the reach of children and pets . It is best to store it at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not expose it to extreme cold or extreme heat. Do not freeze. Discard any expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Tazarotene is a prescription-only medication for acne.
- Avoid becoming pregnant while using this medicine as it can cause serious harm to the unborn baby.
- It is essential to protect yourself from the sun while using the medicine. Use sunscreen every day.
- Use the medicine exactly as the doctor tells you to, as much as you need. Applying too much will not give you quick results.
- If you experience severe allergic reactions or severe skin reactions, call your doctor immediately.
- If you have any other concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor and resolve them.
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