Generic name: benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical [ tret-i-noyn-and-ben-zoe-il-per-ox-ide ]
Drug class: Topical acne agents
Dosage form: topical cream (3%-0.1%)
Availability: Prescription only
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
What is Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical?
Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical is a combination medicine used to treat pimples (acne) in adults and children 9 years and older.
Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.
How should I take Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use on cuts, abrasions, sunburned skin, or skin affected by eczema.
Apply benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical to the affected area once a day. Apply benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical on clean and dry skin.
Wash your hands after applying benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.
Throw away benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical 30 days after first opening or 12 weeks after you receive it, whichever is sooner.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Acne:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day
Comments:
-This drug is for topical use only.
-The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application.
Use: For the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in adults
Usual Pediatric Dose for Acne:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day
Comments:
-This drug is for topical use only.
-The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application.
Use: For the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in pediatric patients 9 years of age and older
Before Taking
You should not use benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
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skin problems, such as eczema, cuts, or sunburn; or
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skin sensitivity to the sun.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to get pregnant, or breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical?
Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical could make you sunburn more easily. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.
Avoid getting benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical in your eyes, lips, mouth, vagina, or in the creases of your nose.
Avoid getting benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical in your hair or on colored fabric.
Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:
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skin irritation, such as dryness, pain, scaling, redness, peeling, stinging or burning.
Common side effects of benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical may include:
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swelling, itching, pain, dryness, peeling, redness, and irritation at the application site.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical?
Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.