title: Azelaic acid: Properties and mode of action.
abstract: Acne is a common skin disorder that can be problematic for adults as well as for adolescents. It has several key pathophysiological features such as follicular hyperkeratosis, elevated Propionibacterium acnes proliferation, and reactive inflammation, all of which should be targeted for an optimal outcome. Azelaic acid (AzA) has profound anti-inflammatory, antioxidative effects, and is bactericidal against a range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive microorganisms as well, including antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. In addition, AzA's antikeratinizing effects are inhibitory toward comedones. AzA is effective overall in targeting multiple causes of acne and has been proven to be well tolerated in numerous clinical trials.
authors.affiliation: Global Medical Affairs Dermatology, Bayer Pharma AG, Berlin, Germany.
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Sieber
authors.forename: J K E
authors.initials: JK
authors.lastname: Hegel
mesh_terms: D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003998:Dicarboxylic Acids / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008543:Melanins / Q000378:metabolism; D012867:Skin / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D003998:Dicarboxylic Acids; D008543:Melanins; C010038:azelaic acid