Benoquin

What is Benoquin (monobenzone topical)?

Monobenzone topical (for the skin) is a depigmenting agent. It works by increasing the amount of skin pigment molecules (melanin) eliminated from skin cells in the body.

Monobenzone is used to permanently depigment (lighten) skin in people with a condition called vitiligo. Depigmenting (lightening) darker skin around areas of skin affected by vitiligo helps even out the coloring and appearance of the skin.

Monobenzone is not for treating freckles, café-au-lait spots, sun damage, melanoma, jaundice, or other pigmentation disorders not caused by vitiligo.

Monobenzone may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about monobenzone?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to monobenzone. Do not use monobenzone on any areas that are not affected by vitiligo.

Monobenzone is not for treating freckles, café-au-lait spots, sun damage, melanoma, jaundice, or other pigmentation disorders not caused by vitiligo.

It may take up to 4 months of treatment with monobenzone to complete the depigmentation of treated skin. Tell your doctor if your condition does not begin to improve after a month of using this medication.

Using monobenzone may also cause changes in the color of your untreated skin. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about possible depigmentation of other skin areas not affected by vitiligo.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using monobenzone?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to monobenzone. Do not use monobenzone on any areas that are not affected by vitiligo.

Monobenzone is not to be used as a cosmetic bleaching agent.

Before using monobenzone, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs.

How should I use monobenzone?

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

It may take up to 4 months of treatment with monobenzone to complete the depigmentation of treated skin. Tell your doctor if your condition does not begin to improve after a month of using this medication.

Using monobenzone may also cause changes in the color of your untreated skin. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about possible depigmentation of other skin areas not affected by vitiligo.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

An overdose of monobenzone applied to the skin is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while taking monobenzone?

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Monobenzone will make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Monobenzone side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using monobenzone and call your doctor at once if you have severe skin irritation, burning, swelling, or itching.

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild skin irritation;

• mild skin redness or itching; or

• mild swelling of treated skin.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect monobenzone?

There may be other drugs that can interact with monobenzone. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about monobenzone.

• Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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