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Humira vs. Tazorac

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Humira (adalimumab) and Tazarotene (Tazorac) are both prescription medications, but they are used for different conditions and work in different ways. Humira is an injectable biologic Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drug (DMARD) used to treat various autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and plaque psoriasis. It works by blocking a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to reduce inflammation. On the other hand, Tazarotene is a topical retinoid used mainly for treating acne and plaque psoriasis. It helps skin cells renew faster, improving skin appearance and texture. Humira is administered subcutaneously every other week, while Tazarotene is applied daily to the skin. Humira can be used in children as young as 2 years old for some conditions, whereas Tazarotene is approved for children as young as 9 years and older. Humira has serious risks like infections and cancer, while Tazarotene mainly causes skin irritation and increased sun sensitivity. Additionally, Tazarotene is not safe during pregnancy, whereas Humira has no such restriction.

Humira

(adalimumab)

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Tazarotene

(Tazorac)

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Summary for Humira

Prescription only

Humira (adalimumab) is an injection used to treat many different autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and plaque psoriasis. As a TNF blocker, the medication works by blocking a protein that causes inflammation in your body. It's given as a shot under the skin once every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on your condition. Humira (adalimumab) doesn't have a true generic, but there are several similar versions called biosimilars. Common side effects include infections, injection site reactions, and headache.

Indications for Humira

Pros and Cons for Humira

Pros

  • Can be used for many autoimmune conditions
  • Available as a ready-to-use pen that makes it easier to self-inject at home
  • Can be used in young children (as young as 2 years old for some conditions)
  • Only needs to be injected a couple times a month
  • Can be left at room temperature for up to 14 days if needed

Cons

  • Raises the risk of serious infections
  • Can take a few weeks or longer to work
  • Might be difficult to inject for some people
  • Can't receive any live vaccines while taking the medication
  • Might contain rubber or latex, which can cause a reaction for those with an allergy

Common Side Effects for Humira

  • Injection-site reaction (20%)
  • Upper respiratory tract infection (17%)
  • Headache (12%)
  • Rash (12%)
  • Sinus inflammation (11%)
  • Accidental injury (10%)
  • Nausea (9%)
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder infection (8%)

Note: The side effects listed above were reported by adults with rheumatoid arthritis and are similar to those seen in people using Humira (adalimumab) for other conditions.

Warnings for Humira

  • Serious infections
  • Cancers
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Nervous system effects
  • Low blood cell counts
  • Heart failure
  • Lupus-like syndrome
  • Live vaccines

Summary for Tazorac

Prescription only

Tazarotene (Tazorac) is a topical retinoid that's used for treating acne and plaque psoriasis. It helps exfoliate the skin and lessen skin inflammation. Tazarotene (Tazorac) is available as a cream and a gel that's applied directly to the affected areas of skin once per day. Adults can use either the cream or gel. Certain children can also use this medication depending on how old they are, whether they have acne or psoriasis, and whether they're using the cream or gel. Side effects include skin irritation and itching. It can also raise your risk for sunburns.

Indications for Tazorac

Pros and Cons for Tazorac

Pros

  • Works well for treating acne and plaque psoriasis
  • Used once per day
  • Available as a gel and cream

Cons

  • Can take a few months to see significant skin improvement
  • Can make your skin more irritated or more likely to burn
  • Not safe to use while pregnant

Common Side Effects for Tazorac

  • Dry skin
  • Skin peeling or flaking
  • Itching
  • Skin redness
  • Burning or stinging feeling on the skin

Warnings for Tazorac

  • Harm to unborn baby
  • Risk for sunburn
  • Skin irritation

Prices with our coupons for Humira vs. Tazorac

Price Card Drug Icon
Humira1 carton / 2 pens of 40mg/0.4ml
$6,380.16-
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Tazarotene1 tube / 30g of 0.1%
$53.04$70.71
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