Vtama (Tapinarof) is a prescription topical cream used to treat plaque psoriasis in adults and atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults and children ages 2 and older.

What Is Vtama?

Vtama is the brand name for Tapinarof cream 1%, a first-in-class topical medication made by Organon. It belongs to a drug class called aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonists — a completely new category of treatment for skin conditions.

Vtama was first FDA-approved in 2022 for plaque psoriasis in adults, and later received approval for atopic dermatitis in adults and pediatric patients 2 years and older. It is not a steroid, not an immunosuppressant, and not a biologic. It works through a unique mechanism that sets it apart from other topical treatments.

Vtama is not a controlled substance and is available only with a prescription.

What Is Vtama Used For?

Vtama is FDA-approved for two conditions:

• Plaque psoriasis in adults — The most common form of psoriasis, where thick, scaly patches form on the skin.
• Atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults and children ages 2+ — A chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes itching, redness, and dry skin.

Some dermatologists may also consider Vtama for off-label uses such as seborrheic dermatitis, though this is not an FDA-approved indication.

For information on how Vtama compares to other options, see our guide on alternatives to Vtama.

How Is Vtama Taken?

Vtama is simple to use:

• Apply a thin layer to the affected skin areas once daily
• Wash your hands after application (unless you're treating your hands)
• Vtama is for topical use only — not for use in the eyes, mouth, or vaginal area

It comes as a cream in a 60g tube. There's only one strength: 1%. No dose adjustments are needed based on age (for approved populations) or the severity of your condition — the same cream is used for everyone.

Most patients begin to see improvement within a few weeks, though full results may take longer. Your dermatologist will guide you on how long to continue treatment. Unlike topical steroids, Vtama doesn't have the same restrictions on duration of use.

Who Should Not Take Vtama?

Vtama has no listed contraindications in its prescribing information, which is unusual for a prescription medication. However, there are some groups who should use caution:

• Pregnant women — No adequate studies exist. Use only if the benefit outweighs the risk.
• Breastfeeding women — It's unknown whether Tapinarof passes into breast milk.
• Children under 2 — Not studied or approved for this age group.
• Children with psoriasis — Vtama is not approved for pediatric psoriasis, only pediatric atopic dermatitis.

Always tell your doctor about all medications you're using. For details, see our guide on Vtama drug interactions.

How Much Does Vtama Cost?

Without insurance, Vtama costs approximately $1,400–$2,100 per 60g tube. There is no generic version of Vtama available.

Here's how to bring the cost down:

• MyVTAMA Savings Program — Commercially insured patients may pay as little as $0 and no more than $35 per prescription. This is the manufacturer savings card from Organon.
• Insurance coverage — Many insurance plans cover Vtama, though most require prior authorization and/or step therapy (trying topical steroids first).
• Organon Patient Assistance Program — For eligible uninsured or underinsured patients. Call 1-844-674-3200 for information.

For a complete breakdown of savings options, see our guide on how to save money on Vtama.

Side Effects at a Glance

The most common side effects include folliculitis (small red bumps), contact dermatitis (skin irritation), nasopharyngitis, and headache. Serious side effects are rare. Vtama carries no boxed warning and does not cause the skin thinning associated with long-term steroid use.

For the full breakdown, read our guide on Vtama side effects.

Final Thoughts

Vtama is a genuinely new type of topical treatment — the first AhR agonist approved for skin conditions. For patients who haven't responded well to topical steroids or who want to avoid long-term steroid use, it offers a meaningful alternative.

If you're interested in trying Vtama, start by finding a dermatologist who prescribes it. When you have your prescription, use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have it in stock.