Hydroquinone is used to lighten the dark patches of skin (also called hyperpigmentation, melasma, "liver spots," "age spots," freckles) caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone medicine, or injury to the skin.This medicine works by blocking the process in the skin that leads to discoloration.
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| | Age Spot/Skin Lightning
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Overview | Photos | How
To Use | Side
Effects | Precautions | Missed
Dose | Drug
Interactions | |
Age Spot/Skin Lightning
Uses
Hydroquinone is used to lighten the dark patches of skin (also called hyperpigmentation, melasma, "liver spots," "age spots," freckles) caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone medicine, or injury to the skin.This medicine works by blocking the process in the skin that leads to discoloration. Notes
- Do not share this medication with others.This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only.
- Do not use it later for another skin problem unless told to do so by your doctor.
- A different medication may be necessary in that case.
Storage
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.
- Different forms of this product have different storage temperatures.
- Consult your pharmacist or the product labeling for more information.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
- Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
Overdose
- Symptoms after swallowing may include: shaking (tremors), seizures.
How
To Use - Before using, apply a small amount of this medicine to an area of unbroken skin, and check the area within 24 hours for any serious side effects.
- If the test area is itching, red, puffy, or blistering, do not use this product and contact your doctor.
- If there is just mild redness, then treatment with this product may begin.Apply this medication to the affected areas of skin, usually twice daily or as directed by your doctor.
- This medication is for use on the skin only.
- If it is used incorrectly, unwanted skin lightening may occur.
- Avoid getting this product in your eyes or on the inside of your nose or mouth.
- If you do get this medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.This medication may make the treated areas of skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps.
- Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing on the treated areas of skin when outdoors.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.
- To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after 2 months.
Side
Effects - See also How to Use.Mild burning, stinging, redness, and dryness may occur.
- If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell 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.Stop using hydroquinone and tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: blistering, skin cracking, blue-black darkening of the skin.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
- However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before taking hydroquinone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to sulfites; or if you have any other allergies.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma, other skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis).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.
Missed
Dose - 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 and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not double the dose to catch up.
Drug
Interactions - 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.
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CONDITIONS
OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information
is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions
or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular
drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional
should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or
discontinuing any course of treatment. |