Tazarotene

Tazarotene

Tazarotene is a third-generation retinoid primarily used in the treatment of psoriasis and acne. It is a prodrug that is converted to its active form, tazarotenic acid, following topical application.

Chemistry

Tazarotene is a member of the acetylenic class of retinoids. It is a prodrug that is metabolized by rapid deesterification to its active form, tazarotenic acid. The chemical name for tazarotene is ethyl 6-[(4,4-dimethylthiochroman-6-yl)ethynyl]nicotinate.

Pharmacology

Tazarotene is a retinoid prodrug which is converted to its active form, the carboxylic acid of tazarotene, by rapid deesterification in animals and man. Tazarotenic acid binds to all three members of the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) family: RARα, RARβ, and RARγ but shows relative selectivity for RARβ, and RARγ and may modify gene expression.

Clinical use

Tazarotene is indicated for the topical treatment of plaque psoriasis and acne vulgaris. In psoriasis, it is used for mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. In acne, it is used for mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris.

Side effects

The most common side effects of tazarotene are skin related and include erythema, skin pain, pruritus, local irritation, skin exfoliation, burning sensation, and dry skin.

See also

• Retinoid
• Psoriasis
• Acne vulgaris