Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser
Generic name: benzoyl peroxide
Dosage form: solution
Drug class:Topical acne agents
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 22, 2021.
Disclaimer: This drug has not been found by FDA to be safe and effective, and this labeling has not been approved by FDA. For further information about unapproved drugs, click here.
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Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser Description
Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser 3%, 6%, and 9% are topical, gel-based, benzoyl peroxide containing preparations for use in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidizing agent that possesses antibacterial properties and is classified as a keratolytic.
Benzoyl peroxide (C14H10O4) is represented by the following chemical structure:
Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser 3%, 6% and 9% contain hydrous benzoyl peroxide 3%, 6% and 9% as the active ingredient in a vehicle consisting of: alpha olefin sulfonate, cetostearyl alcohol, glycerin, glyceryl monostearate SE, methylparaben, phosphoric acid, propylene glycol, sodium PCA, white petrolatum and purified water.
Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser - Clinical Pharmacology
The mechanism of action of benzoyl peroxide is not totally understood but its antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes is thought to be a major mode of action. In addition, patients treated with benzoyl peroxide show a reduction in lipids and free fatty acids, and mild desquamation (drying and peeling activity) with simultaneous reduction in comedones and acne lesions. Little is known about the percutaneous penetration, metabolism, and excretion of benzoyl peroxide, although it has been shown that benzoyl peroxide absorbed by the skin is metabolized to benzoic acid and then excreted as benzoate in the urine. There is no evidence of systemic toxicity caused by benzoyl peroxide in humans.
