Benzoyl

Common use

Benzoyl treats acne or rosacea. It works by decreasing inflammation and killing or preventing the growth of bacteria on your skin. It belongs to a group of medications called antibiotics.

Dosage and direction

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. If you are treating your hands, only wash your hands before use. Apply a thin film of the medication to the affected area. Do not get it in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed. Use the medication for the full course as directed by your care team, even if you think you are better. Do not stop using it unless your care team tells you to stop it early.

Precautions

Do not use other products that dry the skin. Examples include abrasive cleaners or products with alcohol in them.
Do not use other acne products on the same areas of the skin as this one unless your care team tells you to use both.
Avoid eating or drinking foods or drinks that may make skin redness, flushing, and blushing worse. Examples include spicy foods, alcohol, hot coffee, or hot tea.
This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
This medication may cause white fabric to turn yellow. Wash yellowed fabrics with laundry detergent.

Contraindications

Talk to your if you have any of these conditions: Large area of burned or damaged skin; Lung or breathing disease (asthma); Skin conditions or sensitivity; An unusual or allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives; Pregnant or trying to get pregnant; Breast-feeding.

Possible side effect

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible: Allergic reactions - skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin.
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome): Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness; Sensitivity to light.

Drug interaction

Benzoyl may interact with this medications: Adapalene; Isotretinoin; Salicylic acid or sulfur-containing products; Topical antibiotics, such as clindamycin or erythromycin; Tretinoin.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Overdose

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed. Avoid exposure to extreme heat.