Vanoxide HC
Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) is a combination medication used to treat acne and oily skin. It's available as a lotion that's applied to your skin. This medication can sometimes cause skin irritation or sensitive skin. It's brand name only, so it can be expensive.
What is Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone)?
What is Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) used for?
- Treatment of acne and oily skin
How Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) works
Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) is a combination of two different medications used to treat acne.
- Benzoyl peroxide is an antiseptic that kills bacteria that cause acne. It also lowers the amount of oil made by your skin.
- Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that lowers swelling and redness that's often linked to acne.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Vanoxide-HC |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Anti-infective / Corticosteroid |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
Side effects of Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Skin irritation
- Burning sensation
- Stinging
Less Common Side Effects
- Skin sensitivity
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Pros and cons of Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone)
Pros
- Combines two different medications into one single lotion
- Lowers the amount of oil in your skin which often causes acne
- Lotions are typically less greasy and disappears upon application
- Easy to apply
Cons
- No lower-cost generic available so might be more expensive
- Might need to apply multiple times per day
- Requires a prescription, unlike many other over-the-counter acne creams and lotions
- Can cause stinging or a burning sensation when you first use it
Pharmacist tips for Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone)
- Before using Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone), clean the affected areas of your skin.
- Avoid applying the medication in or around your eyes, mouth, lips, or vagina because this can cause irritation.
- Always shake Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) well before using it to make sure you're getting the right dose with each application.
- The benzoyl peroxide component of Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) can sometimes bleach clothing or linens, especially colored items. Use the medication with caution around your clothes, towels, and sheets.
- It's normal for Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) to cause a temporary, mild stinging or burning sensation when you first start using it. If your skin irritation becomes bothersome, stop using it and contact your provider for further instructions.
- Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) expires 3 months after your pharmacist mixes and prepares the medication. Pay close attention to the expiration date or beyond use date listed on your product. If your medication has expired, don't use it because it might not work as well. If you have questions about the expiration date of your medication, ask your pharmacist.
- Store Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) at room temperature in a secure place away from children at all times. Keep the container tightly closed, and avoid freezing the medication as this can affect how well it works. If your child accidentally comes into contact with the medication, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
Risks and warnings for Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone)
Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Skin irritation
- Risk factors: Sensitive skin | Applying Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) to sensitive areas of your skin
Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) can sometimes cause temporary skin irritations, such as mild burning or stinging, right after you apply the medication. Your risk is higher if you have sensitive skin or apply the medication to sensitive areas of your skin, such as your neck. If you have a history of skin sensitivity to skincare products or acne medications, let your healthcare provider or dermatologist know before using Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone). If you develop skin irritations while using Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone), stop using the medication and let your provider know right away.
Bleaching of hair and clothing
The benzoyl peroxide in Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) can bleach your hair and clothes. Be careful when you are applying the medication. Wash your hands well after using it, before touching anything else.
Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) dosage
Bottle of lotion| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25g of 5%/0.5% | 1 bottle | $312.39 | $312.39 |
Typical dosage for Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone)
Apply a thin layer to affected areas of your skin 1 to 3 times per day, or as directed by your healthcare provider.
How much does Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) cost?
$312.39
What are alternatives to Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone)?
Vanoxide HC (benzoyl peroxide / hydrocortisone) images
