Benoquin Cream (Monobenzone 20%) 20gm Tube

Benoquin Cream general information

What is Benoquin Cream used for?

Benoquin cream is used for depigmentation of the skin as a treatment for widespread vitiligo, a skin condition in which irregular patches of skin, covering about 50% of the body surface, lose colour and become whitened. This is caused by destruction of the pigment producing cells called melanocytes. Benoquin cream is used as a skin lightener in people with vitiligo, to reduce the colour of patches of skin that contain pigment so that they match the areas of skin that have lost colour. Decolouration of the skin using Benoquin cream is permanent and makes the skin sensitive to sunburn.

How does Benoquin Cream work?

Benoquin cream contains monobenzone (monobenzyl ether of hyquinone) that works by causing free-radical formation in the skin and this causes destruction of remaining melanocytes. Monobenzone in Benoquin cream also acts by inhibiting the tyrosine enzyme that is involved in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives colour to the skin. As the amount of melanin produced decreases the areas of normal skin gradually lighten to match the patches of vitiliginous paler skin.

What does Benoquin Cream contain?

Benoquin cream contains the active ingredient monobenzone (monobenzyl ether of hyquinone) in a water-soluble base containing sodium lauryl sulphate, purified water, propylene glycol, cetylalcohol and white wax.

Treating vitiligo with Benoquin Cream

Benoquin cream contains monobenzone a chemical that is used to treat vitiligo, a skin condition in which irregular patches of skin lose colour and become whitened, due to destruction of the pigment producing cells called melanocytes. Monobenzone in Benoquin cream is used for depigmentation of the skin and works by causing destruction of remaining melanocytes and by inhibiting the tyrosine enzyme that is involved in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives colour to the skin. As the amount of melanin produced decreases, the areas of normal skin gradually lighten to match the patches of vitiliginous paler skin. Decolouration of the skin using Benoquin cream is permanent and makes the skin sensitive to sunburn.

What are the side effects of Benoquin Cream?

The most commonly reported side effects when taking Benoquin Cream include: sensitivity to sunlight and UV rays, mild skin irritation, itching and redness at the site of application.

When should Benoquin Cream not be used?

You should not use Benoquin Cream if you:

• are allergic to monobenzone or any ingredients in Benoquin Cream
• are wanting mild cosmetic bleaching of he skin as this whitening is irreversible
• are pregnant or are breastfeeding

How should Benoquin Cream be used?

You should apply your Benoquin Cream as a thin layer to normal patches of skin that you want to lighten. Rub in gently and avoid contact with eyes and inside the nose or mouth. You should apply your Benoquin Cream 2 or 3 times daily for up to 4 months as it may take this long to lighten normal skin colour to match the vitiliginous paler skin. Once you have achieved the skin colour that you want, you can continue to use your Benoquin Cream to maintain this colour by applying up to twice a week.

How long should you use Benoquin Cream?

Once you have achieved the skin colour that you want, you can continue to use your Benoquin Cream to maintain this colour by applying up to twice a week.

Missed dose of Benoquin Cream

If you miss a dose of Benoquin Cream take it as soon as you remember, unless it is time to take the next dose, then skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.

How should Benoquin Cream be stored?

You should store your Benoquin Cream below 25°C in a cool dry place.