This entry was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia app bundle and has not been reviewed by a named clinician on this site. It is provided for educational reference only — verify dosage and safety information against current, authoritative sources and a qualified healthcare professional before any clinical use.
Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect. It also has a mild drying effect, which allows excess oils and dirt to be easily washed away from the skin.
Benzoyl peroxide topical (for the skin) is used to treat acne.
There are many brands and forms of benzoyl peroxide available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.
Benzoyl peroxide topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Indications
Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect. It also has a mild drying effect, which allows excess oils and dirt to be easily washed away from the skin.
Benzoyl peroxide topical (for the skin) is used to treat acne.
There are many brands and forms of benzoyl peroxide available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.
Benzoyl peroxide topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Contraindications
You should not use benzoyl peroxide if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
very sensitive skin.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if benzoyl peroxide topical is safe to use if you have any skin conditions or allergies.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not use this medicine on a child without medical advice.
Side Effects
Benzoyl peroxide topical can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. These reactions may occur just a few minutes after you apply the medicine, or within a day or longer afterward.
Stop using benzoyl peroxide topical and get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction : hives, itching ; difficult breathing, feeling light-headed; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using benzoyl peroxide and call your doctor at once if you have any of these side effects on the treated skin:
severe itching or burning; severe stinging or redness; swelling; or peeling.
Common side effects of benzoyl peroxide topical may include:
mild stinging or burning; itching or tingly feeling; skin dryness, peeling, or flaking; or redness or other irritation.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Benzoyl peroxide can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have: hives, itching; difficult breathing, feeling light-headed; or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
High Risk Groups
Benzoyl peroxide can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have: hives, itching; difficult breathing, feeling light-headed; or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Adult Dosage
5 to 10 % (7.5 (7.5)) 24 hourly Topical — -
Child Dosage
5 to 10 % (7.5 (7.5)) 24 hourly Topical — -
Neonatal Dosage
5 to 10 % (7.5 (7.5)) 24 hourly Topical — -
Drug Interactions
Applying benzoyl peroxide while you are also using tretinoin topical medicine may cause severe skin irritation. Brands that contain tretinoin include Avita , Renova , Retin-A , Tretin-X , and others.
Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins , and herbal products .
Storage
Gel Store in a well closed container, Below 40°C. Do not Freeze.
