Acnecide Gel

What is Acnecide?

Acnecide 5% w/w Gel is a prescription topical medication containing the active substance benzoyl peroxide. It belongs to a class of medicines called topical antimicrobials and keratolytics, specifically formulated for the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Mechanism of Action

Benzoyl peroxide works through three primary mechanisms:

• Antibacterial Action: Releases free oxygen radicals that kill Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria primarily responsible for acne inflammation
• Keratolytic Effect: Helps unclog pores by promoting the shedding of dead skin cells from the follicle lining
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Reduces inflammation in existing acne lesions, decreasing redness and swelling

Imagine your pores as small tubes that can get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Acnecide acts like a gentle cleaner that kills harmful bacteria, unclogs blockages, and calms irritated skin.

What is Acnecide Used For?

Acnecide Gel is indicated for the topical treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris on the:

• Face
• Chest
• Back

Approved Indications

Before Using Acnecide

Essential considerations before initiating treatment:

Medical History Assessment

• History of hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to benzoyl peroxide
• Known allergies to medications, cosmetics, or skincare products
• History of eczema, dermatitis, or chronic skin conditions
• Previous adverse reactions to topical acne treatments

Required Baseline Assessments

1. Skin type assessment (sensitive, dry, oily, combination)
2. Current skincare regimen review
3. Acne severity assessment
4. Review of current medications (prescription and over-the-counter)

Acnecide Contraindications

Absolute contraindications where Acnecide must not be used:

Absolute Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to benzoyl peroxide or any component of the formulation
• History of severe allergic reaction (angioedema, anaphylaxis) to peroxide compounds

Relative Contraindications (Use with caution)

• Severely inflamed or broken skin in treatment area
• Active eczema or dermatitis in areas to be treated
• History of contact dermatitis with topical products
• Concurrent use of other topical acne medications (unless advised by clinician)

Special Population Considerations

Elderly Patients (65+ years)

• Limited specific data exists
• Elderly skin may be more fragile - start with lower frequency
• Monitor closely for excessive dryness or irritation

Pediatric/Adolescent Patients

• Commonly prescribed for adolescents (typically ages 12+)
• Ensure proper application technique is understood
• Monitor for excessive dryness which may lead to non-compliance

Renal or Hepatic Impairment

• No specific dosage adjustments needed
• Minimal systemic absorption when applied topically as directed

Acnecide and Other Medicines

Significant interactions requiring monitoring:

High-Risk Combinations

• Other topical acne treatments (retinoids, salicylic acid): Increased skin irritation, dryness, peeling
• Topical tretinoin: Benzoyl peroxide may inactivate tretinoin - apply at different times

Timing Recommendations

• If using multiple topical products, space applications by 1-2 hours
• Apply Acnecide after cleansing and before moisturizing
• Avoid applying other topical medications to same area simultaneously

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Pregnancy

• Limited data on benzoyl peroxide use in pregnancy
• Avoid use unless deemed essential by your doctor
• If used during pregnancy, apply minimum amount necessary

Breastfeeding

• Not recommended during breastfeeding
• If use is medically necessary, do NOT apply to chest area
• Wash hands thoroughly after application

Driving & Machine Operation

• No known effects on ability to drive or operate machinery
• Benzoyl peroxide is minimally absorbed systemically
• If accidentally gets into eyes, may cause temporary irritation or blurred vision
• Do not drive or operate machinery until vision clears completely if eye contact occurs

Acnecide Ingredients

Active Substance

• Benzoyl Peroxide: 5% w/w

Excipients

How to Use Acnecide Gel

Preparation Steps

1. Wash affected area with mild, non-medicated cleanser and lukewarm water
2. Pat dry gently with clean towel
3. Ensure hands are clean before handling tube

Application Technique

• Amount: Pea-sized amount (approx. 0.5g) for entire face
• Apply: Thin layer to all affected areas
• Avoid: Eyes, mouth, angles of nose, mucous membranes
• Massage: Gently massage into skin until absorbed

Post-Application Protocol

1. Wash hands thoroughly after application
2. Wait 5-10 minutes for gel to absorb
3. Apply non-comedogenic moisturizer if needed

Acnecide Dosage Guidelines

Standard Application Schedule

Application Frequency by Skin Type

• Normal/Oily skin: Start once daily, increase to twice daily after 1-2 weeks
• Sensitive/Dry skin: Start once every other day, increase to once daily after 2-3 weeks
• Very sensitive skin: Start once every 2-3 days, gradually increase as tolerated

Administration Instructions

Step-by-step application guide:

Amount Guidelines

• Face: Pea-sized amount (approx. 0.5g)
• Chest: Blueberry-sized amount (approx. 1g)
• Back: Two pea-sized amounts (approx. 1g total)

Areas to Avoid

• Eyes and eyelids
• Lips and mouth
• Inside nostrils
• Broken or damaged skin
• Areas with cuts, abrasions, or sunburn

Sun Protection

Benzoyl peroxide may increase sun sensitivity. Apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) every morning when using Acnecide.

Missed Dose Management

General Principles

• Do NOT apply extra gel to make up for missed dose
• Consistency is important but occasional missed doses won't significantly affect treatment

Time-Based Guidance

Overdose Information

Topical Overapplication

• Symptoms: Increased redness, irritation, burning, stinging, peeling, dryness
• Management: Wash off excess gel, allow skin to recover 1-2 days, restart with less frequent application

Accidental Ingestion

First Aid Measures:

1. Do NOT induce vomiting
2. Rinse mouth with water
3. Drink glass of water or milk (unless unconscious)
4. Seek immediate medical attention
5. Bring medication package to hospital

Possible Side Effects

Very Common (more than 1 in 10 people)

• Dry skin
• Skin redness (erythema)
• Peeling of the skin
• Burning sensation

Common (1 in 10 to 1 in 100 people)

• Itching (pruritus)
• Skin pain/stinging
• Irritation (irritant contact dermatitis)

Serious Side Effects

Managing Common Side Effects

• Dryness/Peeling: Use non-comedogenic moisturizer, reduce application frequency
• Redness: Apply less gel, use every other day, avoid sun exposure
• Burning/Stinging: Apply to completely dry skin, reduce amount used

How to Store Acnecide

Storage Conditions

• Do not store above 25°C
• Do not freeze
• Store in original tube away from direct heat and sunlight
• Keep tube tightly closed when not in use

Shelf Life and Expiry

• Do not use after expiry date printed on tube and carton
• Typical shelf life: 2-3 years from manufacturing date

Disposal

• Do not throw away via wastewater or household waste
• Return to pharmacy for safe disposal
• Follow specific disposal instructions from pharmacist

Pack Information

Pack Sizes

• 15g tube
• 30g tube
• 60g tube

Components

• One tube of Acnecide 5% w/w Gel
• Patient information leaflet
• Cardboard outer carton

Appearance

• White to off-white aqueous gel
• Aluminium tube packaging

Where Can I Buy Acnecide Online in the UK