Products containing benzoyl peroxide are often used to treat mild to severe acne. Benzoyl peroxide cures acne by lowering the quantity of acne-causing bacteria in the skin and causing it to dry and peel. Some brands are used to treat rosacea, a kind of skin ailment. Benzoyl peroxide may help to reduce rosacea symptoms such as pimples and bumps on the face. 

Check the ingredients on the label even if you have previously used the medication. The manufacturer might have altered the elements. Furthermore, items with identical names may include distinct components with different functions. Using the incorrect product might cause you injury.

Benzoyl Peroxide Gel Application

Before you begin taking this medicine and each time you obtain a refill, read the Patient Information Leaflet if it is available from your pharmacist. If you have any concerns, see your doctor or pharmacist.

Check to see whether you are allergic to this product before using it to treat acne for the first time. To test, apply a tiny quantity to one or two small spots of acne and leave it on for three days. If you experience an allergic response, stop taking this medication and seek medical attention immediately (see the Side Effects section for signs of an allergic reaction). You may use the product if you do not experience an allergic response.

There are several benzoyl peroxide products on the market. Many are available without a prescription. Some items, like creams, cleansers, foam, and lotions, may need a prescription. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice on the best product for you. Before taking this medicine, read and follow all guidelines on the product box if you are using it to self-treat. Consult your pharmacist if you have any queries. If your doctor has recommended this medicine, use it exactly as indicated.

Before using certain products, they must be shaken. Check the product packaging to see whether your medicine has to be surprised.

Adverse Effects

Peeling, itching, irritation, and reddish skin may occur, particularly at the commencement of therapy. Inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately if these symptoms persist or worsen. You should apply less of the medicine or use it less often. For further information, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

If your doctor has prescribed this medicine, remember that your doctor has determined that the benefit outweighs the risk of adverse effects. Many people who use this drug have no significant adverse effects.

It is uncommon for this medicine to cause a severe allergic response. However, get medical attention immediately if you detect signs of a severe allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (particularly of the face/tongue/throat), extreme dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

This is not an exhaustive list of potential adverse effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any additional side effects not mentioned above.

Precautions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide or have allergies before taking it. This product’s inactive components (such as fragrances) may cause allergic reactions or other difficulties. For further information, see your pharmacist.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history before taking this medicine.

Inform your doctor or dentist about everything you take (including prescription pharmaceuticals, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) before surgery.

This drug may make you more sun sensitive. Limit your exposure to the sun. Sun lamps and tanning salons should be avoided. When going outside, use sunscreen and wear protective gear. Call your doctor immediately if you are burnt or have skin blisters/redness.

This drug should be taken only when necessary during pregnancy. Consult your doctor about the dangers and advantages.

It is uncertain if this medication goes into breast milk. Before you start breastfeeding, talk to your doctor.

Interactions

Drug interactions may alter how your prescriptions operate or raise your risk of significant adverse effects. This guide may not include every conceivable medication interaction. Maintain a list of all the items you take (including prescription and nonprescription medicines and herbal supplements) and discuss it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or modify the dose of any medications without first consulting your doctor.

Dapsone applied on the skin is a substance that may interact with this medication.

Overdose

If this medication is consumed, it may be hazardous. Call 911 if someone has overdosed and is experiencing significant symptoms like passing out or difficulty breathing. Otherwise, contact a poison control center immediately. 

Notes

Maintain all routine medical and laboratory visits.

Dose Omitted

If you use this product regularly and forget to take a dosage, take it as soon as you recall. If the next dosage is approaching, skip the missing dose. Take your next dosage at the usual time. To catch up, keep the dosage the same.

Storage

Keep it at room temperature. This medication’s storage requirements vary depending on the brand. Check the product label or contact your pharmacist for information on how to keep your brand. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and dogs.

Do not flush drugs or pour them down the drain unless otherwise directed. When this product has expired or is no longer required, properly dispose of it. Consult your pharmacist or a garbage disposal firm in your area.