Tazorac tazarotene vs Isotretinoin Accutane

Tazorac (tazarotene) is a topical acne and psoriasis medication. When applied to the skin, it affects the growth of skin cells and thereby reduces the formation of pimples and psoriasis plaques. It may affect growth of skin cells by affecting the action of genes that control production of skin cells. It also reduces inflammation. Tazorac was withdrawn from the U.S. market, but it is available on a very limited basis for restricted use. Patients who would like to be considered for this medication should contact their doctor for an evaluation.

Isotretinoin is an oral drug used for the treatment and prevention of severe acne. Severe acne causes permanent scarring of the skin. The inflammation is caused in part by an increased secretion of sebum (oily substance) from glands in the skin (sebaceous glands). The sebum provokes inflammation, and the inflammation resolves (heals) with the formation of a scar (keratinization). The exact mechanism of action of isotretinoin is not known. It may reduce acne by reducing the secretion of sebum. If less sebum is secreted it is likely that there will be less inflammation and keratinization.

Tazorac

• Tazorac should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, or women who may become pregnant.

Isotretinoin

• Isotretinoin is harmful to the fetus and therefore should not be used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age must have two negative pregnancy test results before therapy is started, and a pregnancy test must be conducted during each month of therapy. Two effective forms of birth control must be used during therapy, and pregnancy should be avoided one month before, during, and at least one month after stopping isotretinoin.
• It is not known whether isotretinoin is secreted in breast milk, but because of its potentially serious side effects, it should not be used by nursing mothers.

Tazorac (tazarotene) and Accutane (isotretinoin) are medications used to treat acne. Tazorac is also used to treat psoriasis. Tazorac is a topical medication (applied to the skin) and isotretinoin is taken orally. Tazorac is available in the U.S. on a very limited basis for restricted use.

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