Azelex (Azelaic Acid Cream) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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May 26, 2012

Azelex

Acne (Pimples) »

What is acne?

Acne (acne vulgaris, common acne) is a disease of the hair follicles of the face, chest, and back that affects almost all males and females during puberty; the only exception being teenage members of a few primitive isolated tribes living in Neolithic societies. It is not caused by bacteria, although bacteria play a role in its development. It is not unusual for some women to develop acne in their mid- to late-20s.

Acne appears on the skin as...

congested pores ("comedones"), also known as blackheads or whiteheads,
tender red bumps also known as pimples or zits,
pustules, and occasionally as
cysts (deep pimples, boils).

You can do a lot to treat your acne using products available at a drugstore or cosmetic counter that do not require a prescription. However, for tougher cases of acne, you should consult a physician for treatment options.

What...

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Azelex User Reviews >>

Azelex

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AZELEX®
(azelaic acid) Cream 20%

For Dermatologic Use Only
Not for Ophthalmic Use

DRUG DESCRIPTION

AZELEX (azelaic acid cream) 20% contains azelaic acid, a naturally occurring saturated dicarboxylic acid.

Structural Formula: HOOC-(CH₂)₇-COOH.
Chemical Name: 1,7-heptanedicarboxylic acid
Empirical Formula: C₉H₁₆O₄
Molecular Weight: 188.22

Active Ingredient: Each gram of AZELEX contains azelaic acid..........0.2 gm (20% w/w).

Inactive Ingredients: cetearyl octanoate; glycerin; glyceryl stearate and cetearyl alcohol and cetyl palmitate and cocoglycerides; PEG-5 glyceryl stearate; propylene glycol; and purified water. Benzoic acid is present as a preservative.

What are the possible side effects of azelaic acid topical (Azelex, Finacea, Finevin)?

Serious side effects are not likely to occur. Stop using azelaic acid topical and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; or hives).

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...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Azelex »

What are the precautions when taking azelaic acid cream (Azelex)?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma, repeated episodes of cold sores or fever blisters (oral herpes).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before...

Read All Potential Precautions of Azelex »

Last reviewed on RxList: 11/11/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.