Overview
Tazorac is one of the newest prescription treatments to be developed for acne. Produced by pharmaceutical giant Allergan, Tazorac is available as a cream or gel. As far as the active compounds are concerned, both formulations contain the same concentration, but some patients will prefer one form to the other. Even though Tazorac is only available by prescription and under a doctor’s care, we decided to review this formula to give consumers a better idea of the acne treatment options available.

Featured Ingredients
Tazorac contains only one active ingredient. It is the new drug called tazarotene. Technically, tazarotene is not a drug, but rather is part of a new class of compounds called pro-drugs. In essence, a pro-drug like tazarotene is absorbed through the skin and only after it enters the body does it convert into an active drug substance. In the case of Tazorac, tazarotene is converted into a drug called tazarotenic acid, which is the compound that actually treats and prevents acne breakouts. 

The clinical data on Tazorac, like most drugs, is fairly well established. It is interesting to note that as many as 30% of patients will experience some side effects, including dry skin or flaky skin. In addition, Allergan reports that most patients will need to take Tazorac daily for at least 4 weeks before they begin to see significant results. This may seem longer than other existing treatments, but at least Tazorac gives customers another option for acne in case previous efforts have failed to work.

Web Site at a Glance
The Allergan web site for Tazorac is very clear and easy to understand. Plenty of information on the drug, its effects, causes of acne and prescribing information for dermatologists and physicians is provided. Although we would like to be able to find the actual clinical data on the effects of Tazorac for acne on the web site, it is not common for pharmaceutical companies to make this kind of information easily available. That being said, the web site gives potential patients a very clear understanding of what this drug can do for acne. In addition, the web site shows clear before/after pictures of the effects of the drug.

Pros
- New drug may help clear acne for those who have tried other methods - Plenty of easy to access information for patients and doctors 

Cons
- Available only by prescription

- May take as long as 4 weeks to begin working

Summary
Even considering the potential side effects of using Tazorac, and the fact that it may take 4 weeks to work, this new drug may be a helpful option for some people. If you want to find out more information on Tazorac, or are considering using it, consult with your doctor, who can give you more details.