Benzoyl peroxide

Fetched UK SPC is Acnecide 10% w/w Gel (eMC product 101268). §4.2 states the indication population as adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over. It is recommended to initiate treatment with benzoyl peroxide 2.5% or 5% gel; if adequate results are not achieved with the 5% gel and the 5% gel is well tolerated, treatment with benzoyl peroxide 10% gel may be started. The extent of any drying or peeling may be adjusted by modifying the dosage schedule. Paediatric population: the safety and efficacy of Acnecide 10% w/w Gel in children aged less than 12 years have not been established — no per-kg or age-banded paediatric dose is given, so verify any under-18 use against a children's formulary. §4.4 cautions: may cause swelling and blistering of the skin (discontinue if these occur); a mild burning sensation is likely on first application, with reddening and peeling within a few days and a sudden increase in peeling in most patients during the first weeks — normally subsides within a day or two if treatment is temporarily discontinued; if severe irritation occurs use less frequently, temporarily discontinue, or discontinue altogether; excessive application will not improve efficacy but may increase irritation; use concomitant topical acne therapy with caution because of possible cumulative irritancy, especially with peeling, desquamating or abrasive agents; avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, angles of the nose and mucous membranes (if it enters the eye, wash thoroughly with water); caution when applying to the neck and other sensitive areas; do not apply on damaged skin because of the risk of sensitisation; may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight — avoid sunlamps and prolonged sun/UV exposure and use SPF 30 or higher with UVA protection plus protective clothing when strong sunlight cannot be avoided; contact with any coloured material including hair and dyed fabrics may result in bleaching or discoloration. Contains 40 mg propylene glycol (E1520) per gram (4.0% w/w), which may cause skin irritation. §4.2 does not state a maximum dose. The US label fetched as fallback (Dr. Zenovia Acne Cleanser, a wash-off cleanser) is a different product type and was not used.