Tazarotene is an acetylenic retinoid used to treat fine wrinkles, mottled pigmentation of the skin, acne vulgaris, and plaque psoriasis. Tazarotene, commonly marketed as Tazorac®, Avage®, and Zorac®, is member of the acetylenic class of retinoids.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed
Although the exact mechanism of tazarotene action is not known, studies have shown that the active form of the drug (tazarotenic acid) binds to all three members of the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) family: RARa, RARb, and RARg, but shows relative selectivity for RARb, and RARg and may modify gene expression. It also has affinity for RXR receptors.
- Primary indication
- Used to treat psoriasis, acne and sun damaged skin (photodamage).Curator reviewed · 7 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C21H21NO2S · 351.462 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 1997 · United States, 1997
- Code names
- AGN-190168 · IDP-123
- Brand names
Resolves to
OGQICQVSFDPSEI-UHFFFAOYSA-NSMILESCCOC(=O)C1=CN=C(C=C1)C#CC1=CC2=C(SCCC2(C)C)C=C1What you can answer from here — as of September 23, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Tazarotene, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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