Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical

Generic name: benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical [ TRET-i-noyn-and-BEN-zoe-il-per-OX-ide ]
Brand name: Twyneo
Dosage form: topical cream (3%-0.1%)
Drug class: Topical acne agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jul 1, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical?

Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical is a combination medicine used to treat pimples (acne) in adults and children 9 years and older.

Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• skin irritation, such as dryness, pain, scaling, redness, peeling, stinging or burning.

Common side effects of benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical may include:

• swelling, itching, pain, dryness, peeling, redness, and irritation at the application site.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

doxycycline, clindamycin topical, erythromycin topical, tetracycline, Tazorac

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• skin problems, such as eczema, cuts, or sunburn; or

• skin sensitivity to the sun.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to get pregnant, or breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

How should I use benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use on cuts, abrasions, sunburned skin, or skin affected by eczema.

Apply benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical to the affected area once a day. Apply benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical on clean and dry skin.

Wash your hands after applying benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

Throw away benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical 30 days after first opening or 12 weeks after you receive it, whichever is sooner.

Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Acne:

Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day

Comments:
-This drug is for topical use only.
-The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application.

Use: For the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in adults

Usual Pediatric Dose for Acne:

Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day

Comments:
-This drug is for topical use only.
-The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application.

Use: For the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in pediatric patients 9 years of age and older

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical?

Benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical could make you sunburn more easily. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.

Avoid getting benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical in your eyes, lips, mouth, vagina, or in the creases of your nose.

Avoid getting benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical in your hair or on colored fabric.

What other drugs will affect benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin topical?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

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.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 1.01.