benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid topical Health Article

Generic name(s):

benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid topical

Brand name(s):

benzoyl peroxide-salicylic acid topical, Inova 4/1

What is the most important information I should know about benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid topical?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to benzoyl peroxide (Benzagel, Clear by Design, Fostex, Oxy-10, Panoxyl, and others) or to salicylic acid (aspirin, Compound W, Duofilm, Stri-Dex, and others).

This medication is not for use in treating mild forms of acne. The strength of benzoyl peroxide contained in this medication is higher than that used in many over-the-counter acne products. Severe skin irritation can result from improper use of this product.

Do not share this medication with anyone, even if they have the same symptoms you do. Do not use this medication on anyone under 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

What is benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid topical?

Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect. It also has a mild drying effect that allows excess oil and dirt to be washed away.

Salicylic acid is a peeling agent that causes shedding of the outer layer of skin.

The combination of benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid is used to treat severe acne.

Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid topical?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to benzoyl peroxide (Benzagel, Clear by Design, Fostex, Oxy-10, Panoxyl, and others) or to salicylic acid (aspirin, Compound W, Duofilm, Stri-Dex, and others).

Before using benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

This medication is not for use in treating mild forms of acne. The strength of benzoyl peroxide contained in this medication is higher than that used in many over-the-counter acne products. Severe skin irritation can result from improper use of this product.

Do not share this medication with anyone, even if they have the same symptoms you do. Do not use this medication on anyone under 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I use benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid topical?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.

Apply the medicated pad to clean, dry skin. Use only mild skin cleansers or those your doctor has prescribed.

This medication can bleach or discolor fabric, hair, or other surfaces it comes in contact with. Use with care to avoid damaging colored surfaces.

If this medication causes skin irritation, apply a cool compress to your skin (such as a washcloth wet with cold water) and call your doctor.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Keep each medicated pad in its foil pouch until you are ready to use it.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medication as soon as you remember the missed dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of a benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid overdose may include scaly or peeling skin, redness, or swelling.