Hydroquinone

• Hydroquinone is used to lighten the dark patches of skin (also called hyperpigmentation, melasma, "liver spots," "age spots" or freckles) caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone medicine or injury to the skin.
• This medicine works by blocking the process in the skin that leads to discoloration.

• Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your medical provider.
• Before using, apply a small amount of this medicine to an area of unbroken skin, and check the area within 24 hours for any serious side effects. If the test area is itching, red, puffy or blistering, do not use this product and contact your medical provider through your patient dashboard. If there is just mild redness, then treatment with this product may begin.
• Apply this medication to the affected areas of skin, usually twice daily or as directed by your medical provider.
• This medication is for use on the skin only. If it is used incorrectly, unwanted skin lightening may occur.
• Avoid getting this product in your eyes or on the inside of your nose or mouth. If you do get this medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.
• This medication may make the treated areas of skin more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing on the treated areas of skin when outdoors.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.
• To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
• Inform your medical provider if your condition persists or worsens after 2 months.

• Mild burning, stinging, redness and dryness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, go to your patient dashboard and request a medical provider callback for assistance.
• If your medical provider has prescribed this medication, remember that your medical provider has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

• Stop using hydroquinone and request a medical provider callback right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

  • Blistering
  • Skin cracking
  • Blue-black darkening of the skin
• 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.
• This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, request a callback for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

• Before using Hydroquinone, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as sulfites), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
• Before using this medication, tell your medical provider or pharmacist your medical history, especially if you have asthma or other skin conditions (such as eczema or psoriasis).
• Before having surgery, tell your medical provider or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products).
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your OB/GYN.
• It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Speak with your OB/GYN if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

• Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions.
• Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your medical provider and pharmacist. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicines without your medical provider's approval.

• This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
• If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. If symptoms from taking this medication are less severe, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

Do not share this medication with others. This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another skin problem unless told to do so by your medical provider. A different medication may be necessary in that case.

• If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
• If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

• Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Different forms of this product have different storage temperatures. Consult your pharmacist or the product labeling for more information.
• Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.