Composition: Benzoyl peroxide 4 per cent w/w.
Presentation: Cream.
Storage and stability: Store below 25C.
Action: Keratolytic and sebostatic. Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidising agent with antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes.
Indications: Treatment of moderate acne vulgaris.
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients.
Dosage and administration: Adolescents and adults, apply to the whole of the affected area once or twice daily. Wash with soap and water prior to application. Improvement generally seen after four to six weeks; however, longer use may be necessary.
Children, safety and efficacy have not been established.
Pregnancy, safety in human pregnancy is not established. Use only with special caution and after the physician's assessment of benefit and risk. Do not use in the last month of pregnancy.
Precautions: Avoid contact with eyes, mouth and other mucous membranes. Care should be taken when applying the product to the neck and other sensitive areas. Sun exposure should be minimised. Simultaneous use of other keratolytics, such as salicylates and sulphur, may increase occurrence of skin irritation. May bleach hair and coloured or dyed fabrics.
Drug interactions: Avoid simultaneous application with topical acne preparations containing vitamin A derivatives.
Side effects: In normal use a mild burning sensation will probably be felt on first application and a moderate reddening and peeling of the skin will occur within a few days. During the first few weeks a sudden increase in peeling will occur in most patients, which is not harmful and will normally subside in a day or two if temporarily discontinued. Temporary facial oedema, dermatitis or rash may be experienced. As for other benzoyl peroxide preparations, allergic contact dermatitis could occasionally occur.
Net price: 40g £3.30, retail price, £5.82.
Supplier: Stiefel Laboratories (UK) Ltd, Holtspur Lane, Wooburn Green, High Wycombe, Bucks HP10 0AU (tel 01628 524966).
Legal class: P.