Abstract
Azelaic acid is a complex molecule with many diverse activities. The latter include anti-infective and anti-inflammatory action. The agent also inhibits follicular keratinization and epidermal melanogenesis. Due to the wide variety of biological activities, azelaic acid has been utilized as a management tool in a broad spectrum of disease states and cutaneous disorders. This paper reviews the clinical utility of azelaic acid, noting the quality of the evidence supporting each potential use.
MeSH terms
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Acne Vulgaris / drug therapy
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Alopecia Areata / drug therapy
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Dermatitis, Perioral / drug therapy
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Dermatologic Agents / pharmacology
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Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use*
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Dicarboxylic Acids / pharmacology
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Dicarboxylic Acids / therapeutic use*
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Facial Dermatoses / drug therapy*
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Humans
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Hutchinson's Melanotic Freckle / drug therapy*
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Melanosis / drug therapy
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Psoriasis / drug therapy
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Rosacea / drug therapy
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Skin Diseases / drug therapy*
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Skin Neoplasms / drug therapy*
Substances
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Dermatologic Agents
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Dicarboxylic Acids
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azelaic acid