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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.