What is the most important information I should know about 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.
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 is azelaic acid topical?
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.
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.
How should I use azelaic acid topical?
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.
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