What is Azelaic Acid: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 12, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Azelaic Acid overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Azelex, Finacea

Generic Names:

  • Azelaic Acid

Uses:

  • Treats rosacea and severe acne.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antiacne Antibacterial

Forms:

  • Cream, Foam, Gel/Jelly

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What form(s) does Azelaic Acid come in

  • Cream

  • Foam

  • Gel/Jelly

What are common Azelaic Acid doses?

  • Tube 50GM of 15%

  • Bottle 100GM of

Common Azelaic Acid prescriptions

  • Azelaic Acid
    50gm of 15% tube

  • Azelaic Acid
    50gm of 15% tube of gel

How to take Azelaic Acid

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to apply and how often. Do not use more medicine or apply it more often than your doctor tells you to.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Wash the affected skin with mild soap or a cleansing lotion that does not contain soap. Gently pat dry with a soft towel.

  • Foam: Shake the can well before each use.The foam is flammable. Avoid fire, flame, and smoking when you apply the medicine and right after it is applied.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Foam or gel: You may apply cosmetics after the medicine has dried.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.

  • Foam: Do not store the can at temperatures above 49 degrees C (120 degrees F). Do not poke holes in the can or throw it into a fire, even if it is empty. Throw away any unused medicine 8 weeks after you use it for the first time.

  • Gel: Throw away the pump 8 weeks after opening.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Gel: Throw away the pump 8 weeks after opening.

  • Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Wash the affected skin with mild soap or a cleansing lotion that does not contain soap. Gently pat dry with a soft towel.

  • Foam or gel: You may apply cosmetics after the medicine has dried.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to apply and how often. Do not use more medicine or apply it more often than your doctor tells you to.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Foam: Shake the can well before each use.The foam is flammable. Avoid fire, flame, and smoking when you apply the medicine and right after it is applied.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

  • Foam: Do not store the can at temperatures above 49 degrees C (120 degrees F). Do not poke holes in the can or throw it into a fire, even if it is empty. Throw away any unused medicine 8 weeks after you use it for the first time.

Azelaic Acid contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to azelaic acid or propylene glycol.

Azelaic Acid warnings

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have an asthma.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Azelaic Acid interactions

  • Do not use skin care products that contain alcohol, peel off (including masks), or are abrasive while you are using this medicine.

  • Avoid spicy foods, hot foods and drinks (such as coffee, tea), and alcoholic beverages.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Azelaic Acid side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Increased skin redness

  • Severe skin swelling, itching, burning, peeling, or stinging

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild skin burning, stinging, tingling, dryness, or itching

  • Changes in skin color where the medicine is applied