Benzoyl peroxide is used to treat acne.

Benzoyl peroxide may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Benzoyl peroxide breaks down and removes the dead cells on the skin surface.
Benzoyl peroxide also kills bacteria on the skin.

The removal of cells from the top layer of skin unblocks the sebaceous glands (glands which secrete sebum), which become blocked in acne. This reduces inflammation of the gland as the sebum can then escape.

Bacteria on the skin feed on sebum and produce waste products that further inflame the sebaceous glands, causing acne. Benzoyl peroxide reduces their numbers by reducing their food source (sebum)

If you miss a Benzoyl peroxide dose
If you miss Benzoyl peroxide dose, apply as soon as possible and then continue with your regular schedule. Do not use extra doses, or use for a longer period of time than directed by your prescriber or health care professional.

Benzoyl peroxide Overdose
Benzoyl peroxide overdose can cause severe consequences.

Symptoms of Benzoyl peroxide overdose include:

• burning,
• itching,
• scaling,
• redness,
  Top | Read More on Dosage: How should you take Benzoyl peroxide?
  
  

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medicines while you are taking Benzoyl peroxide.

Take care while using the following:
- antispasmodic medicines, e.g. hyoscine
- antihistamines, e.g. brompheniramine, chlorpheniramine

Most Important Fact about Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide when used with sunscreens containing PABA (para amino benzoic acid) may cause temporary discoloration.

Benzoyl peroxide precautions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Studies on effects in pregnancy have not been done in either humans or animals. However, Benzoyl peroxide may be absorbed through the skin.

Benzoyl peroxide may be absorbed through the mother s skin. It is not known whether it passes into the breast milk. However, Benzoyl peroxide

More common side effects of Benzoyl peroxide may include:

• diarrhea,
• dizziness,
• drowsiness,