Tazret Gel 20 G

TAZRET GEL 20 G

TAZRET GEL is a topical medication manufactured by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. It contains the active ingredient Tazarotene, a third-generation retinoid derived from vitamin A, available in a 0.05% concentration.

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Tazarotene (0.05% w/w).
• Excipients: Benzyl alcohol 1% w/w, ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, carbomer homopolymer type B, edetate disodium, hexylene glycol, poloxamer 407, polyethylene glycol 400, polysorbate 40, purified water, and tromethamine.

Uses TAZRET GEL is primarily used for the topical treatment of various dermatological conditions in adults and children aged 12 and older (for acne):

• Psoriasis: Specifically plaque psoriasis, by slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells, reducing scaling, thickening, redness, and inflammation. It is indicated for plaque psoriasis affecting up to 20% of the body surface area.
• Acne Vulgaris: Helps to clear acne by keeping skin pores clear, reducing excessive oil production, and decreasing inflammation, which prevents the formation of pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads.
• Photoaging: May be used to help reduce fine facial wrinkles and certain types of dark and light spots on the face as part of a total skin care program.

Dosage and Administration

• TAZRET GEL is for external use only. It should be applied as a thin layer to the affected area(s) once daily, usually in the evening or at bedtime.
• The skin should be clean and dry before application.
• Apply only to affected skin areas, avoiding healthy skin or skin folds.
• Wash hands thoroughly after application, unless the hands are the treated area.
• Do not cover the treated area with airtight dressings or bandages unless directed by a doctor.
• Improvement for acne may be seen in about 4 weeks, with full effect potentially taking 8 to 12 weeks. For psoriasis, improvement can be seen in 1 to 4 weeks, though redness may take longer.

Side Effects Common side effects often occur, especially during the initial weeks of treatment, and usually improve with continued use:

• Common: Dry skin, erythema (skin redness), itching, burning or stinging sensation (can be severe), peeling or flaking skin, skin irritation, pain, and changes in the color of treated skin.
• Serious (seek medical attention if experienced): Severe blistering or peeling skin, severe redness or discomfort, swelling, warmth, oozing, or other signs of skin infection, or signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat).

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: TAZRET GEL is contraindicated during pregnancy as it can harm an unborn baby and cause birth defects. Women of childbearing potential must use effective birth control and have a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment. It is generally not recommended during breastfeeding.
• Sun Sensitivity: This medicine can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid excessive exposure to UV rays (sun, sunlamps, tanning beds) and use sunscreen with protective clothing.
• Skin Irritation: Avoid using on eczematous, sunburned, irritated, scraped, or open skin as it may cause severe irritation. Avoid other topical products that can dry or irritate the skin, such as abrasive cleaners, products with alcohol, or other acne products unless advised by a doctor.
• Drug Interactions: Exercise caution with other photosensitizing drugs (e.g., thiazides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, phenothiazines, sulfonamides).
• Application: Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, nostrils, and other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Do not apply to moist, hair-covered areas like armpits or groin.

Storage Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture, and out of reach of children.

TAZRET GEL (Tazarotene) is a topical retinoid medication prescribed for various skin conditions. Below are some frequently asked questions about this medicine.

What is Tazret Gel used for?

Tazret Gel is primarily used for the topical treatment of plaque psoriasis and acne vulgaris. It can also be used to address symptoms of photoaging, such as fine facial wrinkles and skin discoloration caused by sun damage.

How does Tazret Gel work?

Tazret Gel contains tazarotene, a retinoid derived from vitamin A. It works by being converted into its active form, tazarotenic acid, which binds to specific retinoic acid receptors in skin cells. This process helps to regulate gene expression, slowing down the excessive growth of skin cells and reducing inflammation, which are key factors in psoriasis and acne.

What is the usual dosage and application method?

Tazret Gel is for external use only. A thin layer should be applied once daily in the evening to the affected areas of clean, dry skin. It's crucial to apply it only to the areas requiring treatment and avoid contact with healthy skin or skin folds. Do not use more than directed, as this will not accelerate results and may increase side effects.

What are the common side effects of Tazret Gel?

Common side effects include dry skin, redness (erythema), itching, skin burning, stinging, irritation, peeling, and skin pain at the application site. This medication can also increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight. If these side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is Tazret Gel safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Tazret Gel is not safe for use during pregnancy and is contraindicated due to the potential for harm to a developing fetus and birth defects. Women of childbearing potential must use effective birth control while using this medication. A negative pregnancy test is typically required before starting treatment.

For breastfeeding mothers, it is unknown if tazarotene passes into breast milk or if it is safe. It is generally recommended to consult your doctor to discuss whether this medication is appropriate while breastfeeding.

Can Tazret Gel be used with other medications or products?

You should avoid using Tazret Gel concurrently with other topical medications or cosmetics that have strong drying or irritating effects, such as those containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Also, use caution with oral medications known to increase sun sensitivity (photosensitizers), including certain antibiotics and diuretics. Always inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter medications, herbal products, and supplements you are using.

What precautions should I take while using Tazret Gel?

Avoid contact with your eyes, mouth, nose, mucous membranes, open wounds, abraded skin, or sunburned areas. If accidental contact occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water. Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure by wearing protective clothing and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher), as Tazret Gel increases sun sensitivity. Avoid using sun lamps or tanning beds. Do not apply the gel to eczematous skin, and avoid covering the treated area with occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss an application, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double or extra dose to make up for a missed one, as this can lead to severe skin irritation.

How should Tazret Gel be stored?

Store Tazret Gel at room temperature, typically between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Ensure it is kept out of reach of children and pets. Do not refrigerate. Always check the expiration date and dispose of any expired or unused medication properly according to local guidelines.