Benzoyl Peroxide Bar, Wash, or Creamy Wash

What is this medication?

BENZOYL PEROXIDE (BEN zoe ill per OX ide) treats acne. It works by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria that cause acne. It belongs to a group of medications called antiseptics.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Benprox, Benzac AC, Benzac W, BenzePrO, Benziq, BP Cleanser, BP Foaming Wash, BP Wash, BPO Creamy Wash, Brevoxyl-4, Brevoxyl-8, Delos, Desquam-X, Ethexderm BPW, Lavoclen-4, Lavoclen-8, NeoBenz Micro, Pacnex, Pacnex MX, PanOxyl, PanOxyl 10 Maximum Strength, PanOxyl 5, PanOxyl-8, Peroderm, SE BPO, TL BPO MX, True Marker Lintera, Zaclir, Zoderm, Zoderm Cleanser, Zoderm Wash

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Large area of burned or damaged skin
• Lung or breathing disease (asthma)
• Skin conditions or sensitivity
• An unusual or allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash hands before and after use. If you are treating your hands, only wash your hands before use. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse them out with plenty of cool tap water. Use this medication as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed. Use the medication for the full course as directed by your care team, even if you think you are better. Do not stop using it unless your care team tells you to stop it early.

Wet the skin and apply the medication to the areas to be cleansed. Massage gently into the skin working it into a full lather. Rinse thoroughly with plain water. Pat the skin dry.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Adapalene
• Isotretinoin
• Salicylic acid or sulfur-containing products
• Topical antibiotics, such as clindamycin or erythromycin
• Tretinoin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Do not use other products that dry the skin. Examples include abrasive cleansers or products with alcohol in them. Do not use other acne products on the same areas of the skin as this one unless your care team tells you to use both.

This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.

This medication may bleach clothing and fabric.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
• Sensitivity to light

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medications after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put in the trash, take the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.