Uses
This product is used to treat acne and oily skin. The product contains two ingredients, hydrocortisone and benzoyl peroxide. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that acts to decrease the skin swelling that can occur with acne. Benzoyl peroxide works by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria. It also helps to heal pimples by causing the skin to dry and peel.
How to use Benzoyl Peroxide-HC Suspension
Shake the container well before each use. Wash your hands before and after using this medication. Apply this medication to the areas of your skin affected by acne as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 3 times a day. Before applying each dose, gently wash the affected area with a mild cleanser, and then pat dry. Apply a small amount of medicine to the affected area and rub in gently.
Do not bandage, cover, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your acne may become worse before it improves. It may take 3 weeks of use to notice improvement in acne. It may take 8 to 12 weeks before full benefit takes effect.
Do not use large amounts of this medication or apply it more often than directed. Doing so will not clear acne faster and may increase side effects.
Avoid getting this medication into your eyes, inside your nose or mouth, or on any areas of broken skin since it may cause irritation. If this occurs, flush the area with plenty of water. Benzoyl peroxide may bleach hair or fabrics. Use carefully, and avoid contact with hair, clothing, and furnishings.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Side Effects
Skin reactions such as peeling, itching, irritation, and redness may occur, especially at the start of treatment. You may need to apply smaller amounts of the drug or use it less often. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Less common side effects include skin thinning/discoloration, small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis), or stretch marks. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to benzoyl peroxide or hydrocortisone; or to other corticosteroids (such as prednisone, triamcinolone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as paraben preservatives), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: skin infections (especially viral infections like varicella).
Do not use this medication in an area where there is an infection or sore. If you apply the medication to an infected area, the infection may become worse. Tell your doctor promptly if redness, swelling, or irritation does not improve.
Children may be more sensitive to the effects of too much corticosteroid medication. Consult your doctor for more details.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
A product that may interact with this drug is: dapsone used on the skin.
Overdose
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Apply this medication cautiously and wash hands after use. This medication may bleach or stain hair or colored clothing/fabrics.
Tell all your doctors you use (or have used) this medication.
Do not share this medication with others.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.