Aziderm 10% Cream

Description

Aziderm 10% Cream is a topical medication primarily used to treat certain skin conditions, most notably acne and rosacea. Its active ingredient is Azelaic Acid 10%.

Product Overview

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. In dermatology, it’s valued for its multifaceted properties:

• Antibacterial: It works by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria (specifically Cutibacterium acnes, formerly Propionibacterium acnes) on the skin surface. This helps to reduce bacterial load and associated inflammation.
• Anti-inflammatory: Azelaic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne and rosacea. It scavenges free radicals and reduces the generation of pro-inflammatory substances in the skin.
• Keratolytic and Comedolytic: It helps to normalize the disordered growth of skin cells (keratinocytes) lining the hair follicles. This action prevents the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by keeping pores clear.
• Antipigmentary (Hyperpigmentation): Azelaic acid can also help to lighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots left after acne lesions heal) and other forms of hyperpigmentation like melasma. It does this by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production.

Indications for Use:

Aziderm 10% Cream is prescribed for:

• Acne Vulgaris (Pimples): It effectively treats mild to moderate inflamed acne, reducing lumps, redness, and swelling. It helps clear existing pimples and prevents new ones from forming.
• Papulopustular Rosacea: It is used to manage the redness, flushing, and pus-filled bumps associated with this chronic inflammatory skin condition.

Usage

Directions for Use:

Aziderm 10% Cream is a prescription medication, and its use should strictly follow your doctor’s instructions. However, general application guidelines typically include:

1. Cleanse Skin: Thoroughly wash the affected skin area with plain water or a mild, soap-free cleanser. Pat the skin dry before application.
2. Apply Thin Layer: Apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected areas of the face and/or body.
3. Gentle Rubbing: Gently rub the cream into the skin until it is absorbed.
4. Wash Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the cream.
5. Frequency: Typically applied twice daily (morning and evening), or as directed by your doctor. For sensitive skin, a doctor might recommend starting with once daily for the first week.
6. Duration: Improvement may be noticeable within 4 weeks for acne and 4-8 weeks for rosacea. The duration of treatment can be several months, up to 6 months for acne, or even longer if prescribed by a dermatologist. Do not stop using it without consulting your doctor.

Important Precautions:

• External Use Only: This cream is for topical application only. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, nose, or other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse immediately and thoroughly with large amounts of cool water.
• Avoid Irritants: Avoid using alcoholic cleansers, tinctures, astringents, abrasive cleansers, or peeling agents on the treated area, as these can increase skin irritation.
• Sun Protection: While azelaic acid is not typically associated with photosensitivity, it’s always advisable to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, especially when using active skincare ingredients.
• No Occlusive Dressings: Do not cover the treated area with bandages or occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor.

Side Effects

Aziderm 10% Cream is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. Most side effects are temporary and localized to the application site.

Common Side Effects (may occur in 1-10% of users):

• Burning, stinging, or tingling sensation: This is very common, especially during the initial phase of treatment. It usually subsides as the skin adapts to the medication.
• Itching (Pruritus): Mild to moderate itching at the application site.
• Redness (Erythema): Skin redness in the treated area.
• Dryness, scaling, or peeling: Skin dryness or flakiness can occur. Using a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer can help manage this.
• Irritation: General skin irritation.

Less Common / Rare Side Effects:

• Hypopigmentation: In rare cases, especially in individuals with darker skin tones, azelaic acid can cause a lightening of the skin color in the treated areas. If you notice significant skin lightening, inform your doctor.
• Contact Dermatitis: An allergic skin reaction.
• Swelling (Edema) or blistering: At the application site.
• Worsening of Asthma: In very rare cases, azelaic acid has been reported to worsen asthma symptoms. If you have asthma and notice an exacerbation, consult your doctor immediately.
• Allergic Reaction: Serious allergic reactions (e.g., hives, rash, severe itching, swelling of face/eyes/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing) are rare but require immediate medical attention.

Managing Side Effects:

• If side effects are bothersome, try applying the cream less frequently (e.g., once a day instead of twice) for a few days, then gradually increase back to the prescribed frequency as your skin tolerates it.
• Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to combat dryness.
• Avoid other harsh skincare products or exfoliants.
• If any side effect is severe, persistent, or worsens, consult your doctor.

Prescription

Aziderm 10% Cream, containing azelaic acid, is a prescription-only medication (Rx).

• You cannot purchase Aziderm 10% Cream without a valid prescription from a licensed doctor.
• A dermatologist or a general physician will assess your skin condition (acne or rosacea) and determine if azelaic acid is the appropriate treatment for you. They will also advise on the correct dosage, frequency, and duration of use.