What is Finacea?
Finacea comes as a topical foam or gel and contains azelaic acid. This is a naturally occurring acid. Azelaic acid helps skin renew more quickly, reducing the formation of blackheads and pimples. It also helps kill bacteria that cause acne and rosacea. Finacea treats mild-to-moderate Rosacea, a skin condition characterized by red eruptions on the nose and cheeks. This medication may not work to treat skin redness. Finacea gel is a gel containing 15% azelaic acids in a base of aqueous water. Finacea foam contains 15% azelaic in a white or off-white emulsion. It is available in a pressured aluminum can.
Warnings
Finacea should not be applied to the eyes, mouth, rectum, or vagina. Use this medication only on skin that is not sunburned or windburned. Not to be used on dry, chapped, irritated or broken skin.Use this medication only after these conditions are healed. After applying finacea, do not cover the affected area. This could lead to your body absorbing too much medicine, which could be harmful. Your symptoms may not improve for four weeks. Continue to use Finacea according to the directions, and inform your doctor if you do not see improvement in your symptoms after 12 weeks. Ask your doctor if you are experiencing excessive irritation, burning, or dryness.
Before you take this drug
Finacea should not be used if you have an allergy to azelaic or propylene glycol. If you've ever had asthma, tell your doctor.Notify your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or nursing. Avoid applying this medication directly to the nipple area while nursing. Finacea cannot be used by anyone under the age of 18.
How to take Finacea ?
Finacea should be taken exactly as prescribed by your physician. Read all the instructions on the prescription label. Take it only by mouth. Topical medicines are only to be used on the skin. After applying the medicine, wash your hands. Before each use, shake the foam thoroughly. Use a mild soap or soap-free cleansing cream to clean the affected area. Pat it dry with a soft cloth. Follow the instructions on how to apply the medication. Avoid applying to skin that is sunburned or windburned. Also, avoid using it on chapped, irritated, or broken skin. Cover the treated area of skin with a bandage only if your doctor says so.Your symptoms could take anywhere between four to eight weeks to improve. If your symptoms don't improve after 12 treatments, call your doctor. If you experience excessive skin irritation, such as burning or dryness, tell your doctor. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature. After 8 weeks, throw away the foam. Finacea foam can ignite. Avoid using near-open flames or high heat. Smoke only after the gel is completely dry.
Details on dosage
Adult dosage for Acne Rosacea:
Gel/Foam Formulations 15%: Apply a thin coat to the affected areas 2 times per day
Comments:
The affected area should be washed gently and dried before applying a mild soap or a soapless cleansing lotion.
This drug should be massaged gently, but thoroughly, into the affected area in the morning and evening.
Patients can apply cosmetics after the treatment is dry.
If improvement is not seen after 12 weeks, patients should be reassessed.
For patients who use foam formulations, only a small amount of foam is needed to cover the affected areas with a thin film.
Use: Topical treatment for the inflammation of papules, pustules, and mild to moderate Rosacea.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If it is close to time for your next dose, skip any missed one and do not apply two at the same time.
What happens if I overdose?
Should anyone take an overdose of medicine by mistake, seek emergency medical attention immediately or contact Poison Help immediately at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
If this medication gets into your eyes, nose, or mouth, or rectum and vagina, rinse with water. If you experience irritation in your eyes after getting this medication, call your doctor. Do not use other medications to treat the same areas that you have treated with Finacea, unless you are told by your doctor. Avoid skin products that can cause irritation. These include harsh soaps and skin cleaners, as well as skin products containing alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime. During treatment with this medication, your doctor may advise you to avoid spicy foods, hot drinks or foods, and alcoholic beverages, as well as other foods or beverages that may cause skin flushing or redness.
Side effects of Finacea
If you experience symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing or swelling to lips, face, tongue or throat please seek emergency medical help immediately.
If you experience:
- Heat, burning, or stinging
- Itching or tingling that is severe
- Severe redness, dryness, or peeling;
- Changes in skin color
- New or worsening respiratory problems
Finacea can cause a variety of side effects.
- Pain, burning, stinging, or tingling.
- Dry or scaly skin
- Itching or other irritation
There may be other side effects. Need advice regarding potential side effects? Talk with your physician.The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Interaction with other drug
Other medications you take shouldn't interfere with the topical medication you apply directly to your skin. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.