Benzac W
Benzac W Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Food Interaction and all others data.
Benzoyl peroxide has mild keratolytic effect and antimicrobial activity due to release of free-radical oxygen which oxidizes bacterial protein. It is active against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes.
Benzoyl peroxide is a topical treatment for acne that generates free radicals to break down comedones and increase the rate of epithelial cell turnover. It has a short duration of action as its active free radical metabolites quickly react to form inactive metabolites. The therapeutic index is wide, as overdoses are rare, however patients may still experience skin peeling. Patients should be counselled regarding increased risks of skin irritation, dryness, and sunburn.
Trade Name | Benzac W |
Generic | Benzoyl Peroxide |
Benzoyl Peroxide Other Names | Benzoyl benzenecarboperoxoate, Benzoyl peroxide, Bepio, Peróxido de benzoilo |
Type | Topical bar, topical cream, topical foam, topical gel, topical kit, topical liquid, topical lotion, topical pad, topical soap |
Formula | C14H10O4 |
Weight | Average: 242.2268 Monoisotopic: 242.057908808 |
Groups | Approved |
Therapeutic Class | Acne treatment preparations |
Manufacturer | |
Available Country | Canada, United States |
Last Updated: | September 19, 2023 at 7:00 am |
Uses
Topical therapy for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
Benzac W is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Acne, Acne Vulgaris, Inflammatory Acne Vulgaris
How Benzac W works
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.
Dosage
Benzac W dosage
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.
Side Effects
The major adverse reaction reported to date with Benzac W 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.
Toxicity
Data regarding overdoses of benzoyl peroxide are not readily available. During an overdose patients may experience and increased risk or severity of adverse effects such as skin itching, burning, peeling, inflammation, and erythema.
The oral LD50 in rats is 490 mg/kg.
Precaution
Children, Pregnancy and lactation.
Interaction
There is no known interaction with other medications which might be used cutaneously and concurrently with Benzac W; however, drugs with desquamative, irritant and drying effects should not be used concurrently with Benzac W gel.
Food Interaction
No interactions found.Elimination Route
In a sample of excised skin, 1.9% of a radiolabelled topical dose fully penetrates the skin, and 2.6% remains in the skin. The radiolabelled dose that fully penetrates the skin is recovered as benzoic acid, while the dose in the skin is approximately half benzoic acid and half benzoyl peroxide. 95.5% of a radiolabelled dose is not absorbed or metabolized after 8 hours.
Elimination Route
Benzoyl peroxide's metabolite benzoic acid, is eliminated in the urine. Data regarding fecal elimination is not readily available.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding use
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.
Contraindication
Benzac W gel is contra-indicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Benzac W.
Acute Overdose
Benzac W 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.
Storage Condition
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.
Innovators Monograph
You find simplified version here Benzac W
Benzac W contains Benzoyl Peroxide see full prescribing information from innovator Benzac W Monograph, Benzac W MSDS, Benzac W FDA label
FAQ
What is Benzac W used for?
Benzac W is used to treat acne. It works as an antiseptic to reduce the number of germs (bacteria) on the surface of your skin. Benzac W is also used to treat mild to moderate acne. It may be used in combination with other acne treatments.
How safe is Benzac W?
While considered safe for most people, Benzac W can cause side effects. This is especially the case when you first start using the product. It may be helpful to use it once a day, and then build up the frequency in application over time if your skin can tolerate it.
How does Benzac W work ?
Benzac W works by peeling away the skin to get rid of dead skin cells, excessive oil, and bacteria that may be trapped underneath.
What are the common side effects of Benzac W?
Commons side effects of Benzac W are include:
- severe itching or burning;
- severe stinging or redness;
- swelling; or.
- peeling.
Is Benzac W safe during pregnancy?
Benzac W is generally considered safe for pregnant women. If you have more questions about the safety of Benzac W or other acne medications during pregnancy, talk to your doctor.
Is Benzac W safe during breastfeeding?
Benzac W is likely safe to use while breastfeeding. These topical acne treatments are considered safe to use while breastfeeding.
Can I take alcohol with Benzac W?
Avoid the use of medicines and products that contain alcohol. The amount of alcohol required to cause this interaction varies among patients. Use of topical products such as creams or lotions that contain alcohol may also cause this interaction.
When should be taken of Benzac W?
You'll usually use the gel once or twice a day. If you have sensitive skin, use the gel once a day, before going to bed. Try to avoid strong sunlight while using Benzac W gel.
When should I take Benzac W morning or night?
Gradually work your way up to morning and night applications. If you use a retinoid or retinol product at night, apply Benzac W only in the mornings. This will prevent irritation and other side effects.
How long does Benzac W take to work?
Benzac W usually takes about 4 weeks to start working.
Can I take Benzac W for a long time?
It is generally safe to use Benzac W for a long time, as long as you do not have any serious side effects.
How long can I take Benzac W?
Benzac W can take up to 2 to 4 months for the treatment to have its full effect.
Can I leave Benzac W on overnight?
Benzac W creams and lotions dry completely before dressing, or lying on your pillow at night. And always wash your hands well after using any benzoyl peroxide treatment.
Who should not take Benzac W?
Benzac W can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. Stop using Benzac W topical and get emergency medical help if you have: hives, itching; difficult breathing, feeling light-headed; or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
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 happen If I stop taking Benzac W?
If you stop using Benzac W you may find that acne comes back. You may want to keep using it to keep acne under control. You may find that using it less often, such as once every other day, is enough to control acne.
What happens if I use too much Benzac W ?
If you use too much Benzac W, your skin may become irritated. Wash off as much as you can and wait for the irritation to go away. When your skin has calmed down again, you can start using Benzac W again.
Can Benzac W cause dizziness?
Benzac W can causes dizziness also with other sid eeffects.