Vanoxide-HC

This product is used to treat acne and oily skin. The product contains two ingredients, hydrocortisone and benzoyl peroxide. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that acts to decrease the skin swelling that can occur with acne. Benzoyl peroxide works by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria. It also helps to heal pimples by causing the skin to dry and peel.

Shake the container well before each use. Wash your hands before and after using this medication. Apply this medication to the areas of your skin affected by acne usually 1 to 3 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Before applying each dose, gently wash the affected area with a mild cleanser, and then pat dry. Apply a small amount of medicine to the affected area and rub in gently.

Do not bandage, cover, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your acne may become worse before it improves. It may take 3 weeks of use to notice improvement in acne. It may take 8 to 12 weeks before full benefit takes effect.

Do not use large amounts of this medication or apply it more often than directed. Doing so will not clear acne faster and may increase side effects.

Avoid getting this medication into your eyes, inside your nose or mouth, or on any areas of broken skin since it may cause irritation. If this occurs, flush the area with plenty of water. Benzoyl peroxide may bleach hair or fabrics. Use carefully, and avoid contact with hair, clothing, and furnishings.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Skin reactions such as peeling, itching, irritation, and redness may occur, especially at the start of treatment. You may need to apply smaller amounts of the drug or use it less often. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Less common side effects include skin thinning/discoloration, "hair bumps" (folliculitis), or stretch marks. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to benzoyl peroxide or hydrocortisone; or to other corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone, triamcinolone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as paraben preservatives), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: skin infections (especially viral infections like varicella).

Do not use this medication in an area where there is an infection or sore. If you apply the medication to an infected area, the infection may become worse. Tell your doctor promptly if redness, swelling, or irritation does not improve.

Children may be more sensitive to the effects of too much corticosteroid medication. Consult your doctor for more details.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: dapsone used on the skin.

Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Apply this medication cautiously and wash hands after use. This medication may bleach or stain hair or colored clothing/fabrics.

Tell all your doctors you use (or have used) this medication.

Do not share this medication with others.