Does Benzoyl Peroxide Interact with Tazarotene?
Benzoyl Peroxide and Tazarotene have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Oxidizing agents such as benzoyl peroxide may cause degradation of tazarotene and reduce clinical efficacy. Apply at different times of day if combination therapy is required. The mechanism involves chemical degradation of tazarotene by oxidizing agent. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Tazarotene Class
- Retinoid
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Benzoyl Peroxide and Tazarotene occurs because chemical degradation of tazarotene by oxidizing agent. Clinically, this means oxidizing agents such as benzoyl peroxide may cause degradation of tazarotene and reduce clinical efficacy. apply at different times of day if combination therapy is required. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Benzoyl Peroxide and your doctor is considering prescribing Tazarotene (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider