Indications
Benzac is used to treat mild to moderate acne (acne vulgaris) on the skin. It can be applied alongside other acne treatments, such as products containing retinoic acid, antibiotics, or sulfur/salicylic acid.
⚠️ Always consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.
Pharmacology
Acne vulgaris starts with inflammation in the pilosebaceous gland, the small unit made up of a hair follicle and its sebaceous (oil) gland. Acne is generally caused by more sebum being released from these glands, by hormones such as androgens, by keratin building up around the follicles, by bacterial growth, and by inflammation. Together these factors lead to comedones, which are the whiteheads and blackheads most people recognise.
Benzoyl peroxide works by splitting its peroxide bond to form 2 benzoyloxy radicals. These radicals react with bacterial proteins in a non-specific way, which disrupts how the bacteria function and makes it harder for them to survive. With continued use, these free radical reactions with bacterial proteins reduce the keratin and sebum around the follicles. Benzoyl peroxide also speeds up the turnover of epithelial cells, so the skin sheds more quickly, which can cause some peeling and helps break down comedones.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Category C. No animal reproductive studies have been carried out with benzoyl peroxide, and it is not known whether the drug can cause fetal harm when used by a pregnant woman or whether it can affect reproductive capacity. It should therefore be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. No data are available on how benzoyl peroxide might affect the later growth, development, and functional maturation of the unborn child.
Nursing Mothers: It is not known whether benzoyl peroxide passes into human breast milk. Since many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when giving it to a nursing mother.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Dosage Reference
⚠️ Reference ranges from official sources only. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.
Side Effects & Interactions
Side Effects
No side-effect data recorded yet.