Finacea (azelaic acid) is a brand-name drug that’s prescribed for rosacea in adults. Finacea comes as a topical gel and topical foam that’s typically applied to the skin twice per day.
Finacea belongs to a drug class called topical anti-acne agents. Finacea gel is available in a generic version, known as azelaic acid. A generic version of Finacea foam has been approved but is not yet available.
Keep reading for specific information about the dosage of Finacea, including its strength and how to use the medication. For a comprehensive look at Finacea, see this article.
Note: This article describes typical dosages for Finacea provided by the drug’s manufacturer. When using Finacea, always follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.
Below is information about Finacea’s forms, strength, and dosage.
Finacea forms
Finacea comes as a topical gel and topical foam that you apply to your skin.
Finacea strength
Finacea comes in one strength of 15%.
Typical dosages
The following information describes dosages that are commonly prescribed or recommended. However, be sure to use the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
Dosage for rosacea
Doctors may prescribe Finacea to treat rosacea.
If your doctor prescribes Finacea, your dosage will likely be one application (of gel or foam) twice per day. Typically, you’ll apply a thin layer to the affected skin in the morning and evening.
If you have questions about how much product to apply, talk with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Long-term treatment
Finacea is meant to be a long-term treatment. You and your doctor will evaluate your need for Finacea after 12 weeks of treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Finacea is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely continue to use it long term.
Before you start taking Finacea, your doctor will discuss your treatment plan with you.
Finacea comes as a topical gel in a tube and a topical foam in a canister. Before using Finacea foam, shake the canister well.
To use Finacea, first clean the affected area of your skin with a mild cleanser and pat dry. Then, apply Finacea (gel or foam) in a thin layer to your affected skin, avoiding your eyes and mouth. You can apply Finacea foam to your entire face if needed. Be sure to wash your hands afterward.
If you have questions about how to use Finacea, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. If you use Finacea foam, you can follow these step-by-step instructions on the manufacturer’s website.
ACCESSIBLE DRUG LABELSSome pharmacies offer labels with large print, braille, or a code you scan with a smartphone to convert text to speech. If your local pharmacy doesn’t have these options, your doctor or pharmacist might be able to recommend a pharmacy that does.
Finacea works best to manage rosacea when you apply it on a regular schedule. If you forget to apply a dose, skip it and apply the next scheduled dose. Do not apply two doses at once to make up for the missed one. If you have questions about this, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
To help make sure that you don’t miss a dose, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or putting a note where you’ll see it, such as on your bathroom mirror or bedside table. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.
It’s important that you do not use more Finacea than your doctor prescribes. For some medications, using more than the recommended amount may lead to harmful effects or overdose.
If you use more than the recommended amount of Finacea
Call your doctor right away if you believe you’ve used too much Finacea. Another option is to call America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. If you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room.
Below are some frequently asked questions about Finacea.
Is the dosage of Finacea similar to the dosage of Soolantra?
No, the form, strength, and how often you apply these drugs are different. Both Finacea and ivermectin (Soolantra) are prescribed to treat rosacea.
Finacea comes as a topical gel and foam that you apply twice per day. Soolantra comes as a topical cream that you apply once per day. The strength of each drug also differs because they have different active ingredients.
Your doctor will prescribe the drug and the dosage that’s right for you. To learn more about how these drugs compare, talk with your doctor.
How long does it take for Finacea to start working?
Finacea starts to work after your first dose. But it may take up to 12 weeks to see a reduction in rosacea symptoms. Your doctor will likely check in with you to see whether the drug is working for your condition.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about what to expect with Finacea treatment.
The dosages in this article are typical dosages provided by the drug’s manufacturer. If your doctor recommends Finacea for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you. Always follow the dosage that your doctor prescribes.
As with any drug, never change your dosage of Finacea without your doctor’s recommendation. If you have questions about the dosage of Finacea that’s best for you, talk with your doctor.
Besides learning about dosage, you may want other information about Finacea. These additional articles might be helpful:
- More about Finacea: For information about other aspects of Finacea, refer to this article.
- Details about rosacea: For details about rosacea, see our list of rosacea articles. You can also check out our dermatology hub.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.