Indications & Uses
Depiquin is used for the gradual lightening of hyperpigmented skin conditions, including chloasma, melasma, freckles, age spots (senile lentigines), and other unwanted areas of excess melanin pigmentation. It is intended for night-time use only, as it contains no sun-blocking agents.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
Apply Hydroquinone USP 4% Cream to the affected area and rub it in well twice daily, or as directed by a physician, to achieve maximum therapeutic potential. This cream is intended for use during night hours, as it contains no sunblocking agent. There is no recommended dosage for children under 12 years of age except under the advice and supervision of a physician. Pediatric usage: safety and effectiveness in children below the age of 12 years have not been established.
Side Effects
No systemic side effects have been reported with hydroquinone. Occasionally, hypersensitivity may occur in the form of localized contact dermatitis (skin irritation at the site of application). If this happens, stop using the medicine and inform the physician immediately.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Depiquin is a skin-lightening (bleaching) agent and can cause unwanted cosmetic effects if it is not used as directed. Before starting treatment, test for skin sensitivity: apply a small amount of Depiquin to a patch of unbroken skin and check the area after 24 hours. Minor redness is not a reason to stop. However, if there is itching, blistering (vesicle formation), or an excessive inflammatory reaction, further treatment is not advised. Close supervision by a healthcare professional is recommended throughout use. Avoid contact with the eyes. If no bleaching or lightening effect is seen after 2 months of treatment, the medication should be stopped. Depiquin contains no sunblock or sunscreen agents. Because even minimal sunlight exposure may reverse its bleaching effect, it should be used only at night or on areas of the body covered by protective clothing during the daytime. Keep this and all medicines out of the reach of children. In case of accidental ingestion, contact a physician or a poison control centre immediately. Depiquin contains sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may cause serious allergic-type reactions (such as hives, itching, wheezing, anaphylaxis, and severe asthma attacks) in certain susceptible people.
Contraindications
Do not use hydroquinone if you have a history of sensitivity or an allergic reaction to hydroquinone or to any other ingredient in the preparation. The safety of topical hydroquinone has not been established in pregnancy or in children aged 12 years and under.