Early clinical development of tazarotene

Summary Initial clinical investigations on tazarotene, a new acetylenic retinoid, have suggested potential usefulness in the treatment of mild‐to‐moderate plaque psoriasis. Tazarotene promotes healing of psoriatic lesions by modulating the key pathogenetic factors in this disease. It is not sensitizing, phototoxic, or photoallergenic. but causes moderate dose‐related skin irritation. Systemic absorption is minimal and elimination is rapid, providing a low potential for systemic adverse effects. Tazarotene effectively treats mild‐to‐moderate plaque‐type psoriasis, the benefits seem to be sustained after the cessation of therapy, and once‐daily treatment is equally effective as more frequent application.