GENERIC NAME: MONOBENZONE - TOPICAL (BEN-oh-kwin)
BRAND NAME(S): Benoquin
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Monobenzone is used to treat the loss of skin color (vitiligo). It works by permanently removing color from normal skin located around skin with vitiligo. Do not use this medication for other skin color conditions (e.g., freckling, age spots, etc.).
HOW TO USE: This medication is for use on the skin only. Apply a thin layer of the medication two or three times daily to colored skin; or use as directed by your doctor. After using this medication, the skin will be permanently affected and sensitive to sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, wear protective clothing, or use sunscreens regularly when outdoors. It may take up to four months before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Once the desired skin color is achieved, this medication is applied only as needed to maintain your new skin color (usually two times a week).
SIDE EFFECTS: Dry skin, burning, irritation, redness, cracking or peeling of the skin may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: rash, swelling, skin discoloration of areas not treated with this medication. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: This medication is not recommended for use if you have the following medical conditions: freckles, increased skin color due to perfumes (berlock dermatitis), melasma of pregnancy, inflammation, skin cancer, age spots or "liver spots". Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: other skin conditions, allergies. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. 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.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Vitiligo - Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis, research and treatment of vitiligo, an incurable disorder that causes white patches (pigmentation loss) on the skin.
- Freckles - Read about the causes of freckles (sun, genetics), red or brown spots on the skin. Learn about freckle prevention and treatment (laser removal, fade creams).
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Specialty RSS
Interactive Slideshows