HomeNDC LookupIngredientsAzelaic Acid › 00591-2131-55
azelaic acid .15 g/g Gel — NDC 00591-2131-55 package photo

azelaic acid .15 g/g Gel

by Actavis Pharma, Inc. · 1 TUBE in 1 CARTON (0591-2131-55) / 50 g in 1 TUBE
NDC 00591-2131-55
🏷️ FDA NDC (as labeled) 0591-2131-55 billing pads the labeler segment with a zero
Rx only Generic On market Non-controlled
🗂️ Data synced Jul 24, 2026 · sources: openFDA · FDA label (DailyMed) · FDA Orange & Purple Book · First Databank · CMS NADAC, ASP, Medicare & Medicaid · RxNorm
📋 All sources & update times →
⚠️
Other active recalls for Azelaic Acid (different manufacturers) — 3 · tap to view
These affect other manufacturers’ products for the same ingredient — not necessarily the exact NDC on this page.
Class II · Jul 23, 2026 — CGMP Deviations: Product quality complaints concerning abnormal texture or consistency (described as grainy, gritty, or sandy) were received. (Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA) · FDA recall D-0731-2026
Class II · Sep 17, 2025 — CGMP Deviations: Market complaints received for gritty texture (grainy) (Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA) · FDA recall D-0662-2025
Class II · Jul 22, 2024 — CGMP Deviations (Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA) · FDA recall D-0621-2024
Each entry is an official FDA enforcement report — look up any recall number in the FDA recall database ↗

🆔 Identity & classification

FDA NDC (as labeled) 0591-2131-55
Product NDC 0591-2131
11-digit billing NDC 00591213155
NCPDP billing unit GM — per gram (weight)
RxCUI 1041518
UNII F2VW3D43YT
Application # ANDA208011
SPL Set ID 66298d50-d4e2-4852-bbab-581389c488cb
Physiologic effect Decreased Protein Synthesis; Decreased Sebaceous Gland Activity
DEA schedule Non-controlled
Marketing category ANDA
Marketing status On market
FDA listing status Listed (active directory)
Marketing start 2018-11-19
Route TOPICAL
Dosage form GEL
Substance AZELAIC ACID
GPI-14 90060010004020
GPI class Azelaic Acid
GCN Seq No 051812
GCN 19198
HICL code 007471
Ingredient (HICL) Azelaic Acid
HIC1 code L
Therapeutic class — broad (HIC1) Skin/Subcutaneous Tissue
HIC2 code L5
Therapeutic class — intermediate (HIC2) Keratolytics/Keratoplastics
HIC3 code L5G
Therapeutic class — specific (HIC3) Rosacea Agents, Topical
AHFS code 84:04.04.00
AHFS class Antibacterials (84:04)
FDB label name AZELAIC ACID 15% GEL
FDB brand name Azelaic Acid
Legend status F — Federal legend — prescription drug or device
TE code (Orange Book) AB · RLD · RS
Why two NDCs? The FDA registers this code as 0591-2131-55 — a 4-4-2 layout, and that's what's printed on the package and shown on DailyMed. For insurance claims, every NDC is standardized to a uniform 11-digit 5-4-2 format by adding a zero to the labeler segment → 00591-2131-55. Same drug, same package — only the format differs.
Where does this data come from?
Identifiers from the FDA openFDA NDC Directory and Structured Product Labeling; RxCUI from RxNorm (NLM); GPI from Medi-Span; GCN / HIC / AHFS / legend from First Databank.

🏷️ RxNorm drug class

This medicine belongs to the Other anti-acne preparations for topical use class.

Drug family (ATC) Other anti-acne preparations for topical use
Where does this data come from?
Therapeutic classes from RxNorm RxClass (U.S. National Library of Medicine) — Established Pharmacologic Class (FDA), ATC drug family (WHO) and mechanism of action, matched by this product’s RxCUI.

🏭 Manufacturer & labeler

LabelerActavis Pharma, Inc.
Application holderACTAVIS LABORATORIES UT INC
FDA applicationANDA208011 (ANDA)
Labeler code00591
First marketedNov 2018
Product typeHuman Prescription Drug
Portfolio324 products on file
The labeler markets the product; the application holder owns the FDA approval. They’re often the same company but can differ (e.g. a repackager or an authorized generic). A mailing address / phone appears here when the manufacturer includes it in the product’s FDA label (not all do).
Where does this data come from?
Labeler, application holder and registered establishment from the FDA openFDA NDC Directory and Drugs@FDA; address/contact from the product’s FDA label.

🩺 Clinical

Label name AZELAIC ACID 15% GEL Ingredient Azelaic Acid
📖 What it is MedlinePlus · NLM

Azelaic acid gel and foam is used to clear the bumps, lesions, and swelling caused by rosacea (a skin disease that causes redness, flushing, and pimples on the face). Azelaic acid cream is used to treat the pimples and swelling caused by acne. Azelaic acid is in a class of medications called dicarboxylic acids. It works to treat rosacea by decreasing the swelling and redness of the skin. It works to treat acne by killing the bacteria that infect pores and by decreasing production of keratin, a natural substance that can lead to the development of acne.

Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗
📗 Our plain-language guide HelloPharmacist
  • It's used to treat the red bumps and pimples that come with mild to moderate rosacea — a chronic skin condition that mainly affects the face. It's applied directly to the skin, not...
  • Yes, that's actually one of the most commonly reported side effects, especially in the first few weeks of use. It usually settles down as your skin adjusts. That said, if the irrit...
  • My skin is burning and stinging after I apply it — is that normal?
  • Shake the can well before each use. Gently wash your face with a mild cleanser, pat it dry, then apply a thin layer of foam to your whole face — cheeks, chin, forehead, and nose —...
📖 Read our full Azelaic Acid Topical guide →

Supplement & herbal interactions

Some supplements/herbs that may interact with Azelaic Acid — tap one for details:

Where does this data come from?
Plain-language summary from MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine); supplement & herbal interactions and nutrient depletion data from the Natural Medicines database; our full guide is HelloPharmacist editorial content.

🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients

Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.

💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.

  • UNII 8SKN0B0MIM
    Benzoic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid used as a preservative in medicines and foods. It helps prevent bacterial and fungal growth to extend shelf life and maintain product stability.
  • UNII 4Q93RCW27E
    A synthetic polymer made from acrylic acid that's crosslinked for stability. It acts as a thickener and gelling agent in creams and gels, helping the medicine spread evenly and maintain its texture.
  • UNII 7FLD91C86K
    Edetate disodium is a chemical compound that binds and removes certain metal ions. In medicines, it acts as a preservative and stabilizer by preventing metals like calcium from interfering with the product's shelf life and consistency.
  • UNII C4YAD5F5G6
    A natural oil-derived emulsifier made from glycerin and oleic acid. It helps mix oil and water-based ingredients together in the medicine and may improve how the body absorbs certain drugs.
  • UNII 1DI56QDM62
    A natural fatty substance from soybeans that helps mix oil and water-based ingredients together. It acts as an emulsifier and lubricant in medicines to improve texture and help the product break down properly in your body.
  • UNII 6OZP39ZG8H
    Polysorbate 80 is a synthetic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and oleic acid. It helps mix oil and water-based ingredients together in medications and improves how the product disperses in the body.
  • UNII 6DC9Q167V3
    Propylene glycol is a clear liquid derived from petroleum or vegetable sources. It acts as a solvent, humectant, and preservative in medicines, helping dissolve active ingredients and maintain product stability.
  • UNII 55X04QC32I
    A strong alkaline chemical used to adjust and maintain the pH balance of liquid medicines. It helps keep the medicine stable and ensures it stays effective during storage.
  • UNII 059QF0KO0R
    Water is a liquid solvent that dissolves and mixes ingredients together in liquid medicines, syrups, and injections. It helps distribute the active drug evenly throughout the product.

9 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.

Where does this data come from?
Data sourced from official FDA Structured Product Labeling (SPL) via DailyMedingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.

Inactive ingredient FAQ

Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
No. Inactive ingredients can differ by manufacturer, dosage form, strength, and package / product version.
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Some SPLs do not provide a complete structured inactive-ingredient list, and older or unusual labels may only include the information in narrative text.
Can inactive ingredients matter?
Yes. They can matter for allergies, intolerances, dyes, gluten / lactose concerns, preservatives, and formulation differences — but confirm with a pharmacist or the manufacturer when it’s clinically important.

💲 Pricing

A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.

Price systemPer gPer package
Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly $0.435 $21.73 / 50 g
Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo $0.7762 $38.81 / 50 g
Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 $1.02 $51.09 / 50 g
NADAC price history (per g) — tap or hover for the price & month
Dec 2021 Jul 2022 Dec 2025 Aug 2026 $1.428 $0.435
▼ Down 70% over the last 24 months.
Where does this data come from?
NADAC (National Average Drug Acquisition Cost) is the CMS weekly pharmacy-acquisition-cost survey — what pharmacies pay. ASP (Average Sales Price) is the CMS Medicare Part B drug-payment file, published quarterly. Medicaid pays is computed by us from CMS State Drug Utilization Data (total reimbursed ÷ units, trailing 12 months) — gross of rebates and inclusive of dispensing fees, so it reflects what Medicaid paid, not an acquisition cost. Medicare drug plans pay is the median negotiated point-of-sale unit cost across plans listing this NDC in the CMS quarterly Prescription Drug Plan pricing files, before rebates. The VA pays is the federal contract price (FSS, and the statutory Big 4 ceiling where listed) from the VA National Acquisition Center pharmaceutical price file. All are free public government data; each measures a different payer, so the figures are not directly comparable.

🔁 Therapeutic equivalents

ProductLabelerPackNADAC/unitTEStatusPrice vs. this
azelaic acid .15 g/gthis 00591-2131-55 Actavis 1 tube $0.435 AB Availability likely
Azelaic Acid Gel .15 g/g 00781-7172-50 Sandoz 1 tube $0.435 AB Availability likely
Azelaic Acid Gel .15 g/g 21922-0038-14 Encube 1 tube $0.435 AB Availability likely
Azelaic Acid .15 g/g 51672-1389-03 Sun 1 tube $0.435 AB Availability likely
azelaic acid .15 g/g 68462-0626-52 Glenmark 1 tube $0.435 AB Availability likely
Azelaic Acid Gel .15 g/g 72162-2297-02 Bryant 1 tube AB FDA listed
About this product: this is a generic version of the medicine. FDA equivalence ratings are shown when available, and other versions are listed above, least expensive first.
Where does this data come from?
Equivalents are other NDCs of the same ingredient, form and route from the openFDA NDC Directory, ranked least-expensive-first by NADAC. Therapeutic-equivalence (AB) ratings come from the FDA Orange Book; biologics use the FDA Purple Book for biosimilar & interchangeable status.

Availability & generic status

🏛️
2018
On the market since
Nov 2018
📍
2026
Currently FDA-listed
8 years listed
🔓
·
Generic on the market
this product is a generic
This is a generic drug

This product is an FDA-approved generic. Other versions of the same drug are listed under Therapeutic equivalents, least expensive first.

Where does this data come from?
Patents and exclusivity from the FDA Orange Book (small-molecule drugs), refreshed from public FDA data. Generic launch timing is an estimate, not a guarantee.

🗺️ Medicaid utilization & spend

📍 This exact package only: Medicaid data is reported per full 11-digit NDC — labeler, product and pack size — so every number here is for 00591-2131-55, not the drug overall. Other pack sizes report separately.
💊 Pharmacy benefit only: These are Medicaid outpatient pharmacy claims, billed by NDC. They exclude the medical benefit — clinic- or hospital-administered drugs billed under HCPCS J-codes — so drugs used mostly that way (e.g. Avastin, Lucentis, Keytruda) can look low or missing here. That’s expected, not an error.
📅 Q1 2025 – Q4 2025 · 4 quarters of data
ⓘ The newest quarter is usually incomplete when first published; states restate recent quarters in later CMS releases, so the latest figures typically revise upward. State coverage-policy changes can also shift quarter-to-quarter totals.
Prescriptions last 4 qtrs
875
Units reimbursed last 4 qtrs
43.8K
Gross reimbursed last 4 qtrs
$34K
Avg / prescription
$38.82
Avg / unit
$0.7762
Latest quarter Q4 2025
80Rx
Medicaid pays / g
$0.7762
gross reimbursed
vs
NADAC / g
$0.4345
acquisition cost
=
Spread
+$0.3417
+79% vs cost
What Medicaid paid per g (before rebates; includes the pharmacy’s dispensing fee) compared with NADAC — the average price pharmacies pay to buy the drug. A positive spread means Medicaid reimbursed more than the purchase price, before manufacturer rebates.
Fee-for-service vs managed care
45% FFS 55% MCO
Fee-for-service · 397 Rx Managed care · 478 Rx
State Medicaid map
Alaska: no data reported AK Maine: no data reported ME Washington: no data reported WA Idaho: no data reported ID Montana: no data reported MT North Dakota: no data reported ND Minnesota: 1,250 units · 21.8 per 100k residents MN Wisconsin: no data reported WI Michigan: no data reported MI New York: 16,605 units · 84.8 per 100k residents NY Vermont: 850 units · 131 per 100k residents VT New Hampshire: no data reported NH Oregon: no data reported OR Nevada: no data reported NV Wyoming: no data reported WY South Dakota: no data reported SD Iowa: no data reported IA Illinois: no data reported IL Indiana: no data reported IN Ohio: no data reported OH Pennsylvania: 650 units · 5.0 per 100k residents PA New Jersey: 19,800 units · 213 per 100k residents NJ Massachusetts: no data reported MA California: 2,400 units · 6.2 per 100k residents CA Utah: no data reported UT Colorado: no data reported CO Nebraska: no data reported NE Missouri: no data reported MO Kentucky: no data reported KY West Virginia: no data reported WV Virginia: no data reported VA Maryland: no data reported MD Connecticut: no data reported CT Rhode Island: no data reported RI Arizona: no data reported AZ New Mexico: no data reported NM Kansas: no data reported KS Arkansas: no data reported AR Tennessee: no data reported TN North Carolina: no data reported NC South Carolina: no data reported SC Delaware: no data reported DE Oklahoma: no data reported OK Louisiana: no data reported LA Mississippi: no data reported MS Alabama: no data reported AL Georgia: no data reported GA D.C.: no data reported DC Hawaii: no data reported HI Texas: no data reported TX Florida: 2,200 units · 9.7 per 100k residents FL
Units reimbursed · per 100k residents
5.0213
gray = no data reported
Colors are per 100,000 residents, so big states don’t automatically dominate. Tap or hover a state for its actual totals.
Tap or hover a state
…for its Medicaid breakdown
🏆 Top states by units · per 100k residents
1 New Jersey 213 /100k
2 Vermont 131 /100k
3 New York 84.8 /100k
4 Minnesota 21.8 /100k
5 Florida 9.7 /100k
6 California 6.2 /100k
7 Pennsylvania 5.0 /100k
National units — by quarter
💵 About the dollar figures: “reimbursed” is what Medicaid paid pharmacies before confidential manufacturer rebates, so the program’s real net cost is lower than these numbers. Fee-for-service and managed-care claims are combined unless split above. Source: CMS State Drug Utilization Data; per-100k rates use 2023 Census population estimates.

📊 Medicare Part D spend CMS · PART D · 2026 (Q1)

Medicare Part D (outpatient prescription) spending for Azelaic Acid — the program that covers self-administered drugs. 5 manufacturers.
⚠️ Drug-level data: CMS publishes Part D spending by drug, not by NDC — these figures combine every manufacturer, strength and package size sold under the name Azelaic Acid. That’s a different level of aggregation than the Medicaid card above, which is specific to this exact 11-digit NDC (pack size included), so the two aren’t directly comparable.
Period
Total Part D spend
$1.6M
Claims incl. refills
26.4K
Beneficiaries
21.7K
Spend / beneficiary
$73.90
Spend / claim
$60.70
Trend by period
💵 About the dollar figures: spending is what Part D plans paid before confidential manufacturer rebates, so the program’s real net cost is lower. A blank patient count means fewer than 11 people — CMS hides counts that small to protect privacy. Source: CMS Medicare Quarterly Part D Spending by Drug (data.cms.gov), updated quarterly.

📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product

Package NDCDescription Marketing startStatus
00591-2131-55 You're viewing this 1 TUBE in 1 CARTON (0591-2131-55) / 50 g in 1 TUBE 2018-11-19 Active

📄 Full prescribing information FDA SPL

The complete FDA label for this product — the official prescribing information, verbatim, section by section. Jump with a chip, search within the label, or expand everything.
🎯 Indications and Usage 112 words

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Azelaic acid gel, 15% is indicated for topical treatment of the inflammatory papules and pustules of mild to moderate rosacea. Limitations of Use Although some reduction of erythema which was present in patients with papules and pustules of rosacea occurred in clinical studies, efficacy for treatment of erythema in rosacea in the absence of papules and pustules has not been evaluated. Azelaic acid gel, 15% is indicated for topical treatment of the inflammatory papules and pustules of mild to moderate rosacea.

( 1 ) Limitations of Use Efficacy for treatment of erythema in rosacea in the absence of papules and pustules has not been evaluated. ( 1 )

⏱️ Dosage and Administration 212 words

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Cleanse affected area(s) using only very mild soaps or soapless cleansing lotion and pat dry with a soft towel before application of azelaic acid gel. Apply and gently massage a thin layer of azelaic acid gel into the affected areas on the face twice daily (morning and evening). Wash hands immediately following application of azelaic acid gel.

Cosmetics may be applied after the application of azelaic acid gel has dried. Reassess the diagnosis if no improvement is observed upon completing 12 weeks of therapy. Avoid the use of occlusive dressings or wrappings.

Instruct patients to avoid use of alcoholic cleansers, tinctures and astringents, abrasives and peeling agents. For topical use. Not for oral, ophthalmic or intravaginal use.

Apply a thin layer twice daily to affected area(s). ( 2 ) Use only very mild soaps or soapless cleansing lotion and pat dry with a soft towel before applying azelaic acid gel. ( 2 ) Wash hands immediately following application.

( 2 ) Cosmetics may be applied after the application of azelaic acid gel has dried. ( 2 ) Avoid use of alcoholic cleansers, tinctures and astringents, abrasives and peeling agents. ( 2 ) For topical use.

( 2 ) Not for oral, ophthalmic or intravaginal use. ( 2 )

💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths 35 words

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Azelaic acid gel, 15% is a white to off-white homogeneous gel. Each gram of azelaic acid gel contains 0.15 gm of azelaic acid (15% w/w). Gel, 15% ( 3 )

Contraindications 7 words

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None. None. ( 4 )

⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ~2 min read

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Hypersensitivity : Hypersensitivity reactions, including cases of angioedema, eye swelling, facial swelling, dyspnea, urticaria, and adverse skin reactions, have been reported. In case of known hypersensitivity to any component of the gel, avoid the use of azelaic acid gel. If hypersensitivity develops, discontinue treatment and institute appropriate therapy.

( 5.1 ) Skin Reactions: Skin irritation (i.e. pruritus, burning or stinging) may occur, usually during the first few weeks of treatment. If sensitivity or severe irritation develops and persists, discontinue treatment and institute appropriate therapy. ( 5.2 ) Hypopigmentation: Isolated cases of hypopigmentation occurred after azelaic acid use.

Monitor patients with dark complexion for early signs of hypopigmentation ( 5.2 ) Eye and Mucous Membrane Irritation: Azelaic acid gel has been reported to cause irritation of the eyes. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. ( 5.3 ) Exacerbation of Asthma: Consult a physician if asthma is exacerbated with azelaic acid gel use.

( 5.4 )

5.1Hypersensitivity Hypersensitivity reactions, including cases of angioedema, eye swelling, facial swelling, dyspnea, urticaria, and adverse skin reactions, have been reported during post marketing surveillance. Avoid the use of azelaic acid gel in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the gel. If hypersensitivity develops during treatment, discontinue azelaic acid gel and institute appropriate therapy.

5.2Skin Reactions Skin irritation (i.e. pruritus, burning or stinging) may occur during use of azelaic acid gel, usually during the first few weeks of treatment. If sensitivity or severe irritation develops and persists, discontinue treatment and institute appropriate therapy. There have been isolated reports of hypopigmentation after use of azelaic acid.

Since azelaic acid has not been well studied in patients with dark complexion, monitor these patients for early signs of hypopigmentation.

5.3Eye and Mucous Membranes Irritation Azelaic acid gel has been reported to cause irritation of the eyes. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth and other mucous membranes. If azelaic acid gel comes in contact with the eyes, wash the eyes with large amounts of water and consult a physician if eye irritation persists [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] .

5.4Exacerbation of Asthma Worsening of asthma has been reported in patients using azelaic acid formulations including azelaic acid gel. Consult a physician if asthma is exacerbated with use of azelaic acid gel.

🤒 Adverse Reactions ~2 min read

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The most common adverse reactions are burning/stinging/tingling (29%), pruritus (11%), scaling/dry skin/xerosis (8%) and erythema/irritation (4%). ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Teva at 1-888-838-2872 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. In two vehicle-controlled and one active-controlled U.S. clinical trials, treatment safety was monitored in 788 subjects who used twice-daily azelaic acid gel for 12 weeks (N=333) or 15 weeks (N=124), or the gel vehicle (N=331) for 12 weeks.

In all three trials, the most common treatment-related adverse events were: burning/stinging/tingling (29%), pruritus (11%), scaling/dry skin/xerosis (8%) and erythema/irritation (4%). In the active-controlled trial, overall adverse reactions (including burning, stinging/tingling, dryness/tightness/scaling, itching, and erythema/irritation/redness) were 19.4% (24/124) for azelaic acid gel compared to 7.1% (9/127) for the active comparator gel at 15 weeks. Table 1: Adverse Events Occurring in ≥1% of Subjects in the Rosacea Trials by Treatment Group and Maximum Intensity* Azelaic Acid Gel, 15% Vehicle N=457 N=331 (100%) (100%) Mild Moderate Severe Mild Moderate Severe N=99 N =61 N =27 N =46 N =30 N =5 (22%) (13%) (6%) (14%) (9%) (2%) Burning/stinging/tingling 71 (16%) 42 (9%) 17 (4%) 8 (2%) 6 (2%) 2 (1%) Pruritus 29 (6%) 18 (4%) 5 (1%) 9 (3%) 6 (2%) 0 (0%) Scaling/dry skin/xerosis 21 (5%) 10 (2%) 5 (1%) 31 (9%) 14 (4%) 1 (<1%) Erythema/irritation 6 (1%) 7 (2%) 2 (<1%) 8 (2%) 4 (1%) 2 (1%) Contact dermatitis 2 (<1%) 3 (1%) 0 (0%) 1 (<1%) 0 (0%) 0 (0%) Edema 3 (1%) 2 (<1%) 0 (0%) 3 (1%) 0 (0%) 0 (0%) Acne 3 (1%) 1 (<1%) 0 (0%) 1 (<1%) 0 (0%) 0 (0%) *Subjects may have ˃ 1 cutaneous adverse event; thus, the sum of the frequencies of preferred terms may exceed the number of subjects with at least 1 cutaneous adverse event.

In patients using azelaic acid formulations, the following adverse events have been reported: worsening of asthma, vitiligo, depigmentation, small depigmented spots, hypertrichosis, reddening (signs of keratosis pilaris) and exacerbation of recurrent herpes labialis. Local Tolerability Studies Azelaic acid gel and its vehicle caused irritant reactions at the application site in human dermal safety studies. Azelaic acid gel caused significantly more irritation than its vehicle in a cumulative irritation study.

Some improvement in irritation was demonstrated over the course of the clinical trials, but this improvement might be attributed to subject dropouts. No phototoxicity or photoallergenicity were reported in human dermal safety studies.

6.2Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified post approval of azelaic acid gel. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate the frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure: Eyes: iridocyclitis upon accidental exposure of the eyes to azelaic acid gel. Hypersensitivity: angioedema, eye swelling, facial swelling, urticaria.

Respiratory: worsening of asthma, dyspnea, wheezing. Skin reactions: application site rash.

👥 Use in Specific Populations ~2 min read

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Azelaic acid is minimally absorbed systemically following topical route of administration, and maternal use is not expected to result in fetal exposure to the drug [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. In animal reproduction studies, embryofetal toxicity was noted when azelaic acid was administered orally during the period of organogenesis at doses 162, 19, and 65 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) in rats, rabbits, and monkeys, respectively. Maternal toxicity was noted at these doses but no malformations were observed in these embryofetal developmental studies (see Data) .

The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

Data Animal Data Dermal embryofetal developmental toxicology studies have not been performed with azelaic acid, 15% gel. Oral embryofetal developmental studies were conducted with azelaic acid in rats, rabbits, and cynomolgus monkeys. Azelaic acid was administered during the period of organogenesis in all three animal species.

Embryotoxicity was observed in rats, rabbits, and monkeys at oral doses of azelaic acid that generated some maternal toxicity. Embryotoxicity was observed in rats given 2500 mg/kg/day [162 times the MRHD based on body surface area (BSA) comparison], rabbits given 150 or 500 mg/kg/day (19 or 65 times the MRHD based on BSA comparison) and cynomolgus monkeys given 500 mg/kg/day (65 times the MRHD based on BSA comparison) azelaic acid. No malformations were observed in the oral embryofetal developmental studies conducted in rats, rabbits and cynomolgus monkeys.

An oral peri- and post-natal developmental study was conducted in rats. Azelaic acid was administered from gestational day 15 through day 21 postpartum up to a dose level of 2500 mg/kg/day. Embryotoxicity was observed in rats at an oral dose of 2500 mg/kg/day (162 times the MRHD based on BSA comparison) that generated some maternal toxicity.

In addition, slight disturbances in the post-natal development of fetuses was noted in rats at oral doses that generated some maternal toxicity (500 and 2500 mg/kg/day; 32 and 162 times the MRHD based on BSA comparison). No effects on sexual maturation of the fetuses were noted in this study.

8.2Lactation Risk Summary Azelaic acid is naturally present in human milk. When used as prescribed, azelaic acid is unlikely to be absorbed through the skin in clinically relevant amounts to cause a change in azelaic acid concentration in milk or milk production; therefore, breastfeeding is not expected to result in exposure of the infant to azelaic acid gel. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for azelaic acid gel and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from azelaic acid gel or from the underlying maternal condition.

8.4Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of azelaic acid gel have not been established in pediatric patients.

8.5Geriatric Use Clinical studies of azelaic acid gel did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine if they respond differently than younger subjects.

🧬 Clinical Pharmacology 169 words

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1Mechanism of Action The mechanism(s) by which azelaic acid interferes with the pathogenic events in rosacea are unknown.

12.2Pharmacodynamics The pharmacodynamics of azelaic acid in association with the treatment of rosacea are unknown.

12.3Pharmacokinetics The percutaneous absorption of azelaic acid after topical application of azelaic acid gel could not be reliably determined. Mean plasma azelaic acid concentrations in rosacea subjects treated with azelaic acid gel twice daily for at least 8 weeks are in the range of 42 to 63.1 ng/mL. These values are within the maximum concentration range of 24.0 to 90.5 ng/mL observed in rosacea subjects treated with vehicle only.

This indicates that azelaic acid gel does not increase plasma azelaic acid concentration beyond the range derived from nutrition and endogenous metabolism. In vitro and human data suggest negligible cutaneous metabolism of 3 H-azelaic acid after topical application of 20% azelaic acid cream. Azelaic acid is mainly excreted unchanged in the urine, but undergoes some ß-oxidation to shorter chain dicarboxylic acids.

📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling 47 words

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING How Supplied Azelaic acid gel, 15%, is a white to off-white homogeneous gel, is supplied in 50 g tubes (NDC 0591-2131-55). Storage and Handling Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted between 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].

📋 Description 136 words

11 DESCRIPTION Azelaic acid gel 15%, is an aqueous gel which contains azelaic acid, a naturally-occurring saturated dicarboxylic acid. It is for topical use. Chemically, azelaic acid is 1,7-heptanedicarboxylic acid.

The molecular formula for azelaic acid is C 9 H 16 O 4 . It has the following structure: Azelaic acid has a molecular weight of 188.22. It is a white, odorless crystalline solid.

It is poorly soluble in water at 20°C (0.24%) but freely soluble in boiling water and in ethanol. Azelaic acid gel 15%, is a white to off-white homogeneous gel for topical use; each gram contains 0.15 gm azelaic acid (15% w/w) in an aqueous gel base containing benzoic acid (as a preservative), carbopol 980, edetate disodium, glycerol monooleate, lecithin, polysorbate 80, propylene glycol, purified water, and sodium hydroxide to adjust pH. 1

💬 Information for Patients ~1 min read

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Inform patients using azelaic acid gel of the following: Administration Instructions For topical use only. Before applying azelaic acid gel, cleanse affected area(s) with a very mild soap or a soapless cleansing lotion and pat dry with a soft towel. Wash hands immediately following application of azelaic acid gel.

Cosmetics may be applied after the application of azelaic acid gel has dried. Avoid the use of occlusive dressings or wrappings. Avoid use of alcoholic cleansers, tinctures and astringents, abrasives and peeling agents [see Dosage and Administration (2)] .

Hypersensitivity If allergic reactions occur, discontinue use and consult their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] . Skin Irritation Skin irritation (e.g., pruritus, burning, or stinging) may occur during use of azelaic acid gel, usually during the first few weeks of treatment. If irritation is excessive or persists, or allergic reactions occur, discontinue use and consult your physician [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] .

Hypopigmentation Advise patients to report abnormal changes in skin color to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] . Eye and Mucous Membranes Irritation Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth and other mucous membranes. If azelaic acid gel comes in contact with the eyes, wash the eyes with large amounts of water and consult their healthcare provider if eye irritation persists [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] .

Exacerbation of Asthma Advise patients to report any worsening of asthma to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] . Manufactured For: Teva Pharmaceuticals Parsippany, NJ 07054 Rev. C 5/2022

Source: FDA Structured Product Labeling, mirrored from DailyMed / openFDA. Prefer the government’s original formatting? View this label on DailyMed ↗
For educational and professional reference only — not medical advice. Pricing reflects published NADAC and CMS ASP (free public data) and may differ from your acquisition cost; always verify before billing or dispensing.