Obtaining the optimal treatment outcome with tazarotene.

Tazarotene topical gel (Tazorac) is a vitamin A derivative and the first topical retinoid to demonstrate therapeutic success in treating plaque-type psoriasis. It has been available in the United States since 1997. Tazarotene offers long-term remission in many patients and may be used in combination with corticosteroids and UVB therapy for even better results. Due to its potency as a vitamin derivative, tazarotene is also associated with irritation in some patients. Patients must be educated about proper application of the drug and realistic expectations for treatment outcome.