Benzoyl Peroxide 4% topical
Indications
Benzoyl Peroxide 4% topical is used for:
Acne vulgaris
Adult Dose
Adult:
Topical
Acne
Cream: Apply 1–2 times a day
Child Dose
Child
Topical
Acne
Cream: Child 12–17 years: Apply 1–2 times a day
Renal Dose
Administration
For topical use only; not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use
Before first use, apply small amount to 1 or 2 small affected areas of skin for 3 days, if no discomfort/allergy occurs, use according to directions
Apply sparingly to affected areas after thoroughly washing skin;
Wash hands after application
May bleach hair or colored fabric
Contra Indications
Hypersensitivity.
Precautions
For external use only; avoid contact with the eyes, lips, mucous membranes, and mouth
Skin irritation may occur, characterized by redness, burning, itching, peeling, or possibly swelling; decrease frequency of use or use lower concentration product
Concomitant administration with sulfone products (sulfacetamide or dapsone) may result in temporary discoloration (orange/yellow) of facial hair and skin; may avoid by applying products different time and washing off benzoyl peroxide before applying other products
Stop use if irritation becomes severe
Some dosage forms contain benzyl alcohol, which when used in large amounts, may cause fatal gasping syndrome toxicity in neonates
Coadministration with other topical acne medications may increase skin irritation and dryness
Avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen
Avoid contact with hair and dyed fabrics (eg, pillowcases, towels), which may be bleached by this product
Serious allergic reactions
Rare but serious and potentially life-threatening allergic reactions or severe irritation reported
Pregnancy-Lactation
Pregnancy Category: C
Lactation: excretion in milk unknown; use with caution
Interactions
PABA sunscreens may transiently discolour fabric.
Adverse Effects
Side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide 4% topical :
Frequency Not Defined
Contact dermatitis
Erythema
Peeling
Skin dryness
Mechanism of Action
Benzoyl peroxide has mild keratolytic effect and antimicrobial activity which is attributed to its oxidative property. It is active against S.epidermidis and P.acne.