Compare Finacea vs. Clindesse

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Finacea (azelaic acid)

Prescription only

Clindesse (clindamycin)

Prescription only
Treats rosacea.

Finacea (azelaic acid) helps treat raised spots and pimple-like bumps that come from rosacea, but only provides slight redness improvement. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about the redness from rosacea.

Treats bacterial vaginal infections with a single dose.

Clindesse (clindamycin) treats vaginal infections and is very easy to use.

Upsides
  • Comes in both a gel and foam formulation.
  • Studies show Finacea (azelaic acid) is effective at reducing raised spots and pimple-like bumps in mild to moderate rosacea.
  • Is as effective as alternative medicines.
  • Very easy to use and works within a few days.
  • Generic available, so cost is lower.
  • Doesn't have many side effects.
  • You can stand up and walk around right after you use it, so you can use it at any time of day.
Downsides
  • Only available as a prescription.
  • More expensive than alternative medicines. A generic option is not available. Your doctor may have you try a less expensive alternative medicine first.
  • May not be the best option if you are looking to improve redness from rosacea.
  • Causes more skin irritation than alternative medicines. Speak to your doctor if you already have very sensitive skin. An alternative medicine may be better for you.
  • Can cause yeast infections in some women.
  • After using Clindesse (clindamycin), must avoid sex and using tampons for 7 days.
  • Can very rarely cause severe diarrhea.
  • Cannot be used if you have bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Gel, foam
  • Cream
Price
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Reviews
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Side effects
4possible side effects
  • Burning/Stinging/Tingling
    28%
  • Itching
    11%
  • Scaling/Dry skin/Very dry skin
    8%
  • Redness/Irritation
    3%
See more detailed side effects
5possible side effects
  • Yeast infection
    14%
  • Headache
    7%
  • Back pain
    5%
  • Constipation
    2%
  • Bladder infection
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Allergic reactions
  • Loss of skin color
  • Skin irritation
  • Worsening of asthma
  • Eye and mouth irritation
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Allergy alert
    • Known allergy to clindamycin
    • Known allergy to lincosamides
  • Severe diarrhea
    • History of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
    • Crohn's disease
    • Ulcerative colitis
    • Regional enteritis
  • Weakened condoms and vaginal diaphragms
  • Safety in girls who haven't started puberty
See more detailed risks and warnings