Topical therapy for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
Acne treatment preparations
Acne vulgaris is caused by inflammation in the pilosebaceous gland. Acne is generally caused by increased excretion of sebum from pilosebaceous glands, endocrine factors such as androgenic hormones, keratin developing around follicles, bacterial growth, and inflammation. These factors contribute to the formation of comedones (whiteheads and blackheads). The peroxide bond of benzoyl peroxide is cleaved to form 2 benzoyloxy radicals. These radicals interact nonspecifically with bacterial proteins, interfering with their function, and survival of the bacteria. Over time, free radical interactions with bacterial proteins lead to decreased keratin and sebum around follicles. Benzoyl peroxide can also increase the turnover rate of epithelial cells, leading to skin peeling, and breaking down comedones.
Adult: As 2.5-10% preparation: Apply 1-2 times daily after cleansing, may gradually increase to tid if needed. Start with lower strength preparations. As cleanser: Wash 1-2 times daily. Child: ?12 yr Same as adult dose.
There is no known interaction with other medications which might be used cutaneously and concurrently with Benzoyl Peroxide; however, drugs with desquamative, irritant and drying effects should not be used concurrently with Benzoyl Peroxide gel.
Benzoyl Peroxide gel is contra-indicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Benzoyl Peroxide. Precaution: Children, Pregnancy and lactation.
The major adverse reaction reported to date with Benzoyl Peroxide cutaneous therapy is irritation of the skin including erythema, burning, peeling, dryness, itching, stinging, feeling of skin tension locally at the site of application. This is reversible when treatment is reduced in frequency or discontinued. Allergic contact dermatitis, including face oedema, may occur.
Pregnancy Category C. Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the fetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Benzoyl Peroxide gel is a preparation indicated for topical treatment only. If the medication is applied excessively, no more rapid or better results will be obtained and severe irritation might develop. In this event, treatment must be discontinued and appropriate symptomatic therapy should be instituted.
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.
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