Azelaic Acid

Information About Azelaic Acid

Uses of Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is commonly used to treat acne vulgaris, rosacea

How Azelaic Acid Works

Azelaic Acid is an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid that works by inhibiting the growth of Propionibacterium acnes. It also normalises keratinisation leading to restriction of comedones development.

Side Effects of Azelaic Acid

Burning, pain and pruritus Rash, paraesthesia, swelling and dryness

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Azelaic Acid Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Azelaic Acid as alcohol may provoke inflammation at the application area leading to intense erythema.

Pregnancy Maybe Safe

Azelaic Acid should be used with caution in pregnant woman. Any harmful effects on fetal development are not indicated in animal studies. There are limited studies on human showing any adverse effect.

Lactation Limited Data

It is not known if azelaic acid is secreted into human milk in vivo. Hence, Azelaic Acid should be used with caution when it is administered to a lactating woman

Driving Generally Safe

Azelaic Acid has no influence on the ability to drive.

Kidney Safe If Prescribed

Dose adjustment of Azelaic Acid is unlikely in patients with renal impairment due to low systemic absorption.

Liver Limited Data

Due to low systemic absorption, dose adjustment of Azelaic Acid is unlikely in patients with liver impairment.