Generic Name: azelaic acid topical (ah zeh LAY ic AH sid)Brand names: Azelex, Finacea, Finevin, Finacea Plus
Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid. It helps the skin to renew itself more quickly and therefore reduces pimple and blackhead formation. It also helps to kill the bacteria that cause acne and rosacea.
Azelaic acid topical is used to treat acne and rosacea.
Azelaic acid topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Avoid the use of abrasive, harsh, or drying soaps and cleansers such as alcoholic cleansers, tinctures, astringents, abrasives, or peeling agents while using azelaic acid topical.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using azelaic acid topical?Do not use azelaic acid topical on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin. It could make these conditions worse. Also avoid using azelaic acid topical on wounds or on areas of eczema. Wait until these conditions have healed before using this medication. Azelaic acid topical is the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use azelaic acid topical without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether azelaic acid topical passes into breast milk. Do not use azelaic acid topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.Use azelaic acid topical exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Wash your hands before and after applying this medication.
Clean the affected area with a mild soap or a soapless cleansing lotion and pat dry with a soft towel. Apply the medication as directed.
Azelaic acid topical is usually applied twice daily, in the morning and at bedtime. Follow your doctor's instructions.
When applying azelaic acid topical, avoid the eyes, the inside of the nose and mouth, the lips, and areas where the skin is broken to prevent excessive irritation. If you get medication on any of these areas, rinse it off with water. Do not cover the affected area after applying azelaic acid. Doing so could cause too much medicine to be absorbed by the body and could be harmful.If you notice a change in your skin color, contact your doctor.
It may take 4 weeks or more to see the effects of this drug. Do not stop using azelaic acid topical if you do not see results immediately.If you experience excessive burning, dryness, or irritation, ask your doctor about using azelaic acid once daily.
Store azelaic acid topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only the next regularly scheduled dose.
An overdose of azelaic acid topical is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect an overdose, or if azelaic acid topical has been ingested, call a poison control center or emergency room for advice.
Avoid the use of abrasive, harsh, or drying soaps and cleansers such as alcoholic cleansers, tinctures, astringents, abrasives, or peeling agents while using azelaic acid topical.
Do not use other topical preparations on the same area unless directed to do so by your doctor. They may interfere with treatment or increase skin irritation.
Your doctor may recommend avoidance of consuming spicy foods, hot foods or drinks, alcoholic beverages and other foods or beverages that may cause flushing or redness of the skin during treatment with azelaic acid topical.
Do not cover the area after applying azelaic acid. Doing so could cause too much medicine to be absorbed by your body and could be harmful.You may experience some burning, warmth, stinging, tingling, itching, redness, dryness, peeling, or irritation while using azelaic acid topical. If these side effects are excessive, ask your doctor about using azelaic acid once daily.
If you have dark skin and you notice changes in your skin color, contact your doctor.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Usual Adult Dose for Acne:
Apply 20% cream to affected area twice a day, morning and evening. The skin should be gently washed, rinsed with warm water, and patted dry before application.
Usual Adult Dose for Acne Rosacea:
Apply 15% gel to affected area twice a day, morning and evening. The skin should be gently washed, rinsed with warm water, and patted dry before application. The gel has been used for up to 12 weeks in clinical trials. Foods or beverages that may cause flushing, blushing, or erythema should be avoided.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Acne:
20% cream:Greater than or equal to 12 years: Apply to affected area twice a day, morning and evening. The skin should be gently washed, rinsed with warm water, and patted dry before application.
Do not use other topical preparations on the same area unless directed to do so by your doctor. They may interfere with treatment or increase skin irritation.
Avoid the use of abrasive, harsh, or drying soaps and cleansers such as alcoholic cleansers, tinctures, astringents, abrasives, or peeling agents while using azelaic acid topical.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with azelaic acid topical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.