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Category X · Absolute Contraindication
Can you use Tazarotene (Tazorac / Arazlo) during pregnancy?
⚠️Medical Deferral Notice
Absolute contraindication. Never use during pregnancy or when pregnancy is suspected. Cosmetic classifications are formulation flags to discuss with your healthcare provider, not medical clearance.
Clinical Summary
A receptor-selective prodrug retinoid carrying an absolute FDA contraindication during pregnancy.
Pharmacological Mechanism & Teratogenic Context
Tazarotene is rapidly metabolized to tazarotenic acid, exhibiting higher systemic bioavailability than other topical retinoids. Clinical post-marketing data and teratogenicity registries document specific risk of retinoid syndrome birth defects. A negative pregnancy test is clinically required prior to initiation.
Common INCI Names on Packaging
TazaroteneTazarotenic Acid
Permitted Alternatives During Pregnancy
- ✓Azelaic Acid 15% gel or foam
- ✓Gentle glycolic acid washes (<5%)
- ✓Physiological ceramide moisturizers