Benzoyl Peroxide cream

What are benzoyl
peroxide skin products?
BENZOYL PEROXIDE is applied to the skin to treat mild to moderate acne.

What should I tell my health care provider
before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•asthma
•eczema
•seborrheic dermatitis
•skin abrasions
•sunburn
•an unusual or allergic reaction to benzoic acid, cinnamon, parabens, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes, or
preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?
Benzoyl peroxide products are for external use only,
do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not
apply to raw or irritated skin. Avoid getting medicine in your eyes, lips,
nose, mouth, or other sensitive areas.

Before applying, wash affected area with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Apply enough
medication to cover the area and rub in gently.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this
medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, apply as soon as possible and then continue with your
regular schedule. Do not use extra doses, or use for a longer period of time
than directed by your prescriber or health care professional.

What drug(s) may interact with benzoyl peroxide?
•adaopalene (Differin™)
•isotretinoin (Accutane®)
•topical antibiotics such as clindamycin (Cleocin-T®) or erythromycin (EryDerm®,
Erygel®, Erythrostatin®,
Staticin®)
•salicylic acid or sulfur containing products
•tretinoin (Retin-A®)

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other skin
preparations, prescription and non-prescription, you are using. These may
affect the way your medicine works. Check before stopping or starting any of
your medicines.

What side effects may I notice
from using benzoyl peroxide?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care
professional as soon as possible:
•severe burning, itching, reddening, crusting, or swelling of the treated
areas

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your
prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•increased sensitivity to the sun
•mild burning or stinging
•red, inflamed, and irritated skin, the skin may peel after a few days

What should I watch for while
taking benzoyl peroxide?
Your acne may get worse during the first few weeks of treatment with benzoyl peroxide, and then start to improve. It may take 8
to 12 weeks before you see the full beneficial effect. If you do not see any
improvement within 4—6 weeks, call your prescriber or health care
professional.

Once you see a decrease in your acne, you may need to continue to use benzoyl peroxide products to control it.

Do not wash areas of skin treated with benzoyl
peroxide for at least 1 hour after applying the medicine. If you experience
very dry and peeling skin or skin irritation, check with your prescriber or
health care professional.

Do not use the following products on the same areas that you are treating with benzoyl peroxide, unless otherwise directed by your
prescriber or health care professional: medicated cosmetics, cosmetics that dry
the skin (especially products that contain alcohol), rough soaps or cleaners,
and any other acne preparation or skin treatment. If you use these products in
combination with benzoyl peroxide they can increase
the risk of skin irritation.

Benzoyl peroxide can increase sensitivity of the skin
to sun or UV light. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors
and use a sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher). Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning
beds or booths.

Benzoyl peroxide products may bleach hair or colored
fabrics. Avoid getting the medication on your clothes.

Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.