Description
Benzagel is available as a prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) in some countries. Your healthcare provider may prescribe this medication to treat acne vulgaris or rosacea.
Acne vulgaris is a skin condition when hair follicles, usually of the face, become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. When the hair follicles become clogged, they can become red and inflamed. Acne vulgaris is more commonly found in teenagers than children or adults.
Rosacea is also a skin condition that causes red, inflamed skin of the face. It is most commonly experienced by middle-aged women with fair skin. It looks similar to acne vulgaris but is not the same. Symptoms include redness, inflammation, and visible blood vessels.
Acne vulgaris and rosacea are commonly associated with a bacterial infections. Benzagel works by releasing free-radical oxygen, which attacks bacterial proteins and kills bacteria that are found in follicles.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C14H10O4 |
License |
US FDA |
Bioavailability |
- |
Legal status |
US: OTC / Rx-only |
Chemical Name |
Benzoyl peroxide |
Elimination half-life |
1h |
Dosage (Strength) |
2.5%, 5% |
Pregnancy |
Consult Doctor |
Brands |
Benzac, Panoxyl |
Protein binding |
- |
PubChem CID |
7187 |
MedlinePlus |
a601026 |
ChEBI |
82405 |
ATC code |
D10AE01 |
DrugBank |
DB09096 |
KEGG |
DB09096 |
Routes of administration |
Topical |
Directions
For rosacea, the standard dosage is one application to the affected area once daily.
For acne vulgaris, the dosage is one application 1-3 times daily. Reduce usage if excessive dryness of the face occurs.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Benzagel is benzoyl peroxide.
Interactions
Benzagel can interact with the following medications:
- Aminolevulinic Acid
- Dapsone
- Isotretinoin
- Methoxsalen
- Porfimer
- Verteporfin
Cautions
Benzagel can have a bleaching effect on material that it comes into contact with, including fabric, hair, and carpet.
Your skin may become more sensitive to the sun when you are using this product.
If you develop skin irritation while using Venzagel, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Avoid contact with neonates, as benzyl alcohol is associated with fatal "gasping syndrome" in very young children.
Side Effects
Common adverse reactions to this medication include:
- Application-site edema
- Application-site erythema
- Application-site pain
- Application-site pruritus
- Contact dermatitis
- Desquamation
- Erythema of skin
- Skin irritation
- Xeroderma
References
- Benzagel [package insert]. Bridgewater, NJ: Sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC; 2006.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13675