Azelex 20 % topical cream

Generic name:
Azelaic acid cream - topical

Pronunciation
(ay-ze-LAY-ik AS-id)

Brand name(s)
Azelex

This medication is used to treat mild to moderate acne. It works by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria on the skin and by helping to keep your pores open and unblocked, thus decreasing the number of acne pimples. Azelaic acid belongs to a class of drugs known as dicarboxylic acids.

Before using this medication, clean the affected area and pat dry. Apply this medication to the skin as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (in the morning and evening). Apply a thin layer and massage gently into the affected areas. Wash your hands after use.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.

Avoid contact in or near the eyes or inside the nose and mouth. If this medication gets into any of these areas, wash right away with plenty of water and call your doctor if irritation lasts. Do not place a bandage or cover over the cream unless your doctor tells you to do so.

Do not use large amounts of this medication or apply it more often than directed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of side effects may increase. Use this medication for the full course of treatment as directed by your doctor. It usually takes about 1 month to see an improvement, but the full effects of treatment may take longer.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve after 1 month or if it worsens.

Temporary stinging, burning, itching, or tingling of the skin may occur, usually at the beginning of treatment. These effects usually lessen as your body adjusts to this medication. However, if minor irritation continues, your doctor may instruct you to only use this product once daily. If any of these effects last or get worse, stop using this medication and tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Rarely, some people may experience lightening of skin color (hypopigmentation) after using this medication. This side effect may be more noticeable in people with dark skin color. Consult your doctor for more details and report any skin color changes.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

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 breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

Do not share this medication with others.

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.