Overview
Description Hydroquinone is 1,4-benzenediol. Hydroquinone occurs as fine, white needles. The drug is freely soluble in water and in alcohol. Chemically, hydroquinone is designated as p-dihydroxybenzene; the empirical formula is C6H6O2; molecular weight is 110.11 g per mol. The chemical structure is in the diagram. chemstructure.jpg
Mechanism of Action
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Topical application of hydroquinone produces a reversible depigmentation of the skin by inhibition of the enzymatic oxidation of tyrosine to 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) and suppression of other melanocyte metabolic processes. Exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light will cause repigmentation of the bleached areas, which may be prevented by the use of sunscreen agents contained in the Obagi-C® Rx System Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50.
Indications
- INDICATIONS AND USAGE The gradual bleaching of hyperpigmented skin conditions such as chloasma, melasma, freckles, senile lentigines, and other unwanted areas of melanin hyperpigmentation.
Common Doses
- Refer to label
Dosage
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION A thin application should be applied once or twice daily or as directed by a physician. If no improvement is seen after three (3) months of treatment, use of this product should be discontinued. Sun exposure should be limited by using a sunscreen agent or protective clothing to cover bleached skin when using and after using this product in order to prevent darkening from reoccurring.
Contraindications
- CONTRAINDICATIONS People with prior history of sensitivity or allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients should not use it. The safety of topical hydroquinone use during pregnancy or in children (12 years and under) has not been established.
Side Effects
- ADVERSE REACTIONS No systemic adverse reactions have been reported. Occasional hypersensitivity (localized contact dermatitis) may occur, in which case the product should be discontinued and physician notified immediately. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Obagi Medical Products, a division of Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC, at 1-800-321-4576 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Interactions
- No major interactions listed on the FDA label. Always consult a healthcare professional.