Welcome to Benoquik

Benoquik is a skin cream containing the compound, Monobenzone used for skin depigmentation in the treatment of loss of skin color in vitiligo characterized by white patches on the skin due to loss of melanocytes. It works by decreasing the amount of melanin and brings about uniform coloring of the patient’s skin. This cream is not effective in treating hyper-pigmentation resulting from other pigments.

Uses

Benoquik is used to treat the uneven appearance of the skin due to a loss of skin color in vitiligo. It works by permanently removing color from normal skin located around skin with vitiligo and causes destruction of melanocytes and permanent depigmentation. This helps to make the appearance of the skin even. Benoquik is used in case of extensive / advanced condition of Generalised Vitiligo where most of the body goes white and when depigmentation is the only option to give a uniform white color to the skin.

Mechanism Of Action

Monobenzone is a depigmenting agent whose mechanism of action is not fully understood.  Monobenzone, applied topically to the skin, is used as a depigmenting agent inhibiting melanin produced by polymerization of oxidation products of tyrosine and dihydroxyphenyl compounds. Monobenzone works by permanently removing color from normal skin located around skin with vitiligo.

Monobenzone may cause destruction of melanocytes and permanent depigmentation. This effect is erratic and may take one to four months to occur while existing melanin is lost with normal sloughing of the stratum corneum. Hyperpigmented skin appears to fade more rapidly than does normal skin, and exposure to sunlight reduces the depigmenting effect of the drug.

Administration

• Apply a thin layer of Benoquik to the normal colored skin area which requires depigmentation usually two to three times daily or as directed by physician. There is no recommended dose for children under 12 years of age except under the advice and supervision of a physician.
• It may take up to 4 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 the new skin color (usually 2 times a week). Use Benoquik cream regularly to get the most benefit from it.
• Inform the doctor if your condition persists or worsens after 4 months.

Side Effects

Mild burning, irritation, redness, cracking, or peeling of the treated skin may occur. If any of these effects worsen, tell your doctor. Skin that is not treated with Monobenzone may also become discolored or irregular in appearance. Sometimes these effects may be permanent.Â

Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Precaution

• This medication is for use on the skin only. Benoquik cream should be applied with a patch test for 48 h to detect hypersensitivity.
• Avoid application of Benoquik to the eyelids and areas close to the eye.
• Avoid getting this product in your eyes or on the inside of your nose or mouth. If the cream is accidentally applied in these areas, flush with plenty of water.
• After using this medication, the skin will be permanently affected and sensitive to sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Always use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or greater, and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

Warning

• Monobenzone is a potent depigmenting agent, neither a skin fairness cream nor mild cosmetic bleach. Do not use unless prescribed by your doctor or without strict supervision of a Physician.
• Do not use this drug to treat other skin discoloration problems (“sun spots,” “age spots,” freckles, skin discoloration caused by hormone medicine, perfumes, pregnancy, or skin trauma).
• Keep this out of reach of children.

Vitiligo