Benzac AC 2.5% Gel

Composition of Benzac AC 2.5% Gel

Benzac AC 2.5% Gel contains Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5% w/w). It belongs to the Topical antibacterial & keratolytic (benzoyl peroxide) class of medicines.

Uses of Benzac AC 2.5% Gel

• Treatment of acne vulgaris (pimples)
• helps reduce blackheads and whiteheads and prevents new acne lesions

Key benefits

• Reduces acne-causing bacteria
• Unclogs pores and reduces comedones
• Decreases inflammation and redness of pimples
• Helps prevent new breakouts
• Improves overall acne control with regular use

How Benzac AC 2.5% Gel works

Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial and keratolytic agent. It releases oxygen in the skin, which kills acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) and helps unclog pores by reducing excess keratin and oil.

How to take Benzac AC 2.5% Gel

For external use only. Cleanse and dry the affected area, then apply a thin layer once daily initially; if tolerated, increase to 1–2 times daily as advised. Avoid eyes, lips, nostrils and broken skin; wash hands after use. May be used with or without food (topical).

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

If you miss a dose of Benzac AC 2.5% Gel, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can cause severe irritation when far too much cream is applied; an oral retinoid taken in excess can cause headache, vomiting and liver injury. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Benzac AC 2.5% Gel

Most side effects of Benzac AC 2.5% are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Dryness
• peeling
• redness
• burning/stinging
• itching
• irritation
• contact dermatitis

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Benzac AC 2.5% Gel

Warnings and precautions

External use only. Do not apply on cut, sunburnt or eczematous skin. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth and mucous membranes; rinse well with water if contact occurs. May bleach hair and coloured fabrics. Start with once daily to reduce irritation; use a non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen as it may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Stop and seek medical advice if severe swelling, blistering or allergic reaction occurs.

Do not take Benzac AC 2.5% if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. Oral retinoids are absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy and in anyone who might become pregnant without a pregnancy prevention programme. Topical retinoids are avoided in pregnancy.

Interactions with other medicines

Other topical acne medicines (tretinoin/adapalene, salicylic acid, sulfur/resorcinol) may increase irritation; apply at different times if used together. Avoid concomitant topical dapsone due to possible temporary yellow/orange skin discoloration. Caution with alcohol-based or abrasive cleansers/astringents.

How to store Benzac AC 2.5% Gel

Store at room temperature (below 25°C), tightly closed. Protect from heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Expert advice for Benzac AC 2.5% Gel

Do a small test on one or two spots for the first 3 days. Start once daily and increase gradually only if needed and tolerated. Avoid using other topical acne products on the same area unless your doctor advises. Reduce to once daily or every other day if your skin becomes very dry or irritated. Do not apply Benzac AC 2.5% Gel to sunburned or damaged skin.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

GALDERMA INDIA PVT LTD

Therapeutic class:

Anti-acne

Drug class:

Topical antibacterial & keratolytic (benzoyl peroxide)

Chemical class:

Benzoyl peroxides