Benzac4%

Description

Indications of Benzac 4%

Topical therapy for the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Theropeutic Class

Acne treatment preparations

Pharmacology

Benzoyl peroxide has mild keratolytic effect and antimicrobial activity due to release of free-radical oxygen which oxidizes bacterial protein. It is active against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes.

Dosage & Administration of Benzac 4%

Adult: As 2.5-10% preparation: Apply 1-2 times daily after cleansing, may gradually increase to tid if needed. Start with lower strength preparations. As cleanser: Wash 1-2 times daily.Child: ?12 yr Same as adult dose.

Dosage of Benzac 4%

Adult: As 2.5-10% preparation: Apply 1-2 times daily after cleansing, may gradually increase to tid if needed. Start with lower strength preparations. As cleanser: Wash 1-2 times daily.Child: ?12 yr Same as adult dose.

Interaction of Benzac 4%

There is no known interaction with other medications which might be used cutaneously and concurrently with Benzac 4%; however, drugs with desquamative, irritant and drying effects should not be used concurrently with Benzac 4% gel.

Contraindications

Benzac 4% gel is contra-indicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Benzac 4%.

Side Effects of Benzac 4%

The major adverse reaction reported to date with Benzac 4% cutaneous therapy is irritation of the skin including erythema, burning, peeling, dryness, itching, stinging, feeling of skin tension locally at the site of application. This is reversible when treatment is reduced in frequency or discontinued. Allergic contact dermatitis, including face oedema, may occur.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the fetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Precautions & Warnings

Children, Pregnancy and lactation.

Overdose Effects of Benzac 4%

Benzac 4% gel is a preparation indicated for topical treatment only. If the medication is applied excessively, no more rapid or better results will be obtained and severe irritation might develop. In this event, treatment must be discontinued and appropriate symptomatic therapy should be instituted.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Drug Classes

Acne treatment preparations

Mode Of Action

Benzoyl peroxide has mild keratolytic effect and antimicrobial activity due to release of free-radical oxygen which oxidizes bacterial protein. It is active against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C. Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the fetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.