GENERIC NAME: AZELAIC ACID GEL - TOPICAL (ay-zeh-LAY-ick acid)
BRAND NAME(S): Finacea
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat a certain skin condition called rosacea. It helps to reduce the number of inflamed skin lesions.
HOW TO USE: This medication is for use only on the skin. Clean the affected area with a mild soap or soap-free cleanser and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of medication usually twice daily, or use as directed by your doctor. Gently massage the medication into the affected area. Wash your hands well after application. Make-up may be applied after the medication has dried. Avoid getting any of this medication in the eyes or inside the nose or mouth. If it does get in your eyes, wash them immediately with plenty of water. Call your doctor if eye irritation persists. Do not use large amounts or apply this product more often than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but the chance for side effects may be increased. Improvement is usually seen within 4 weeks. However, it may take several weeks of continued use before the full effects of this medication are seen. Do not apply any dressing or covering over the treated area unless directed by your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Burning, stinging, tingling or itching skin may occur during the first few weeks, but then subside as your body adjusts to this medication. Excessive facial hair growth may rarely occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. This medication may infrequently cause abnormal changes in skin color (hypopigmentation). Dark-skinned individuals may notice a lightening in skin color. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice and report these changes if they occur. Tell your doctor immediately if this unlikely but serious side effect occurs: worsening of cold sores or fever blisters (oral herpes). Tell your doctor immediately if this highly unlikely but very serious side effect occurs: worsening of asthma symptoms (e.g., increased trouble breathing, increased use of quick-relief inhalers). An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, persistent itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Rosacea - Learn the symptoms, treatment and diet for rosacea (adult acne), a skin condition that causes facial redness, dilated blood vessels and ocular rosacea (in advanced cases).
- Keratosis Pilaris - Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a skin condition in which white bumps appear on the upper arms, thighs and cheeks. Read about KP causes, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.
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