Benoquin Monobenzone: Precautions & Adverse Reactions to Ponder

Monobenzone which is the active ingredient in Benoquin cream 20% is the monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone. This white and nearly tasteless crystalline powder is soluble in alcohol, and almost insoluble in water. Benoquin (Monobenzone) is a compound used for medical depigmentation of skin in Vitiligo patients. It is topically applied to pigmented skin surrounding the Vitiligo affected skin (white patches) in order to permanently depigment it and match it with the tone of ailing skin.

Before using Benoquin cream, you should be aware of the warnings, precautions, and adverse reactions associated with the medication so that you can use it safely and effectively to obtain best results. Now, we’ll look at some of the warnings and precautions for Benoquin:

Benoquin cream is a powerful depigmenting agent and intended for external use only. You should avoid using it for mild cosmetic bleaching of your skin. Make use of the cream only in case of extensive Vitiligo for final depigmentation.

Like all medications, Benoquin (Monobenzone) should be stored out of the reach of children and pets. Accidental consumption of the medication necessitates a call to your physician or Poison Control Center immediately.

When Benoquin is applied to your skin, it may even depigment the skin areas distant to the area of application of the medication. This particular treatment may give you extravagant, unattractive, unpredictable and regularly permanent depigmentation.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has listed Benoquin (Monobenzone) in the pregnancy category C. So, it is not certain whether the application of Benoquin on the skin by pregnant women can cause harm to a fetus or hamper their reproduction capability. There are also no studies carried on animal reproduction with Benoquin cream 20%. Pregnant women should use this drug only if clearly required.

As many medications excrete into breast milk, Monobenzone may be a cause of concern for nursing mothers. Though it is unknown whether Monobenzone can have a presence in beast milk, carefulness should be exercised when the cream is administered to a breastfeeding woman.

There is no confirmation available regarding the pediatric use of Benoquin cream 20%. Its safeness and usefulness in children below the age of 12 years are yet to be established completely.

Treating Vitiligo with Benoquin (Monobenzone) cream has got some adverse reactions. Patients have reported of experiencing mild, short-lived skin irritation and sensitization, together with erythematous and eczematous reactions. Though these reactions remain for a short period of time, Benoquin must be discontinued if a burning sensation, irritation, or dermatitis persists for long.