Benzoyl peroxide and hydrocortisone topical

Generic name: benzoyl peroxide and hydrocortisone topical [ BEN-zoyl-per-OX-ide-and-HYE-droe-KOR-ti-sone-TOP-i-kal ]
Brand names: Vanoxide-HC, Bencort
Dosage form: topical lotion (5%-0.5%)
Drug class:Topical acne agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Feb 1, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is benzoyl peroxide and hydrocortisone topical?

Benzoyl peroxide and hydrocortisone topical (for the skin) is a combination antibacterial and steroid medicine that is used to treat acne.

Benzoyl peroxide and hydrocortisone topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Benzoyl peroxide can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. Stop using benzoyl peroxide and hydrocortisone 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.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to benzoyl peroxide or hydrocortisone, or if you have:

• a viral or fungal skin infection.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• any skin condition other than acne;

• very sensitive skin;

• allergies;

• diabetes; or

• problems with your adrenal gland.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Do not use this medicine on a child without medical advice.

How should I use benzoyl peroxide and hydrocortisone topical?

Benzoyl peroxide can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. Before you start using benzoyl peroxide and hydrocortisone topical, you may choose to apply a "test dose" to see if you have any type of reaction. Apply a very small amount of the medicine to 1 or 2 small acne areas every day for 3 days in a row. If there is no reaction, begin using the full prescribed amount on the 4th day.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, or irritated skin. Also avoid using on areas of eczema. Wait until these conditions have healed before using this medication.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for...