What is benzoyl peroxide topical?
Benzoyl peroxide topical products (2%, 5%) are used to treat bacterial infections of the skin. These products are mainly used to treat pets who have oily or seborrheic (scaly) skin conditions, folliculitis (blocked hair follicles), generalized demodicosis (skin mites), and schnauzer comedo syndrome. Benzoyl peroxide is also known to be extremely drying for the skin.
Benzoyl peroxide topical products are used in cats and dogs. They are available as over-the-counter veterinary products in the form of shampoos, gels, and cream rinses (Micro BP, Micro-Pearls Advantage Benzoyl-Plus®, GlycoBenz®, Sulfur Benz®, BPO-3®, Oxibenz-3®; Peroxiderm®).
There are many human products available that contain benzoyl peroxide (2.5% to 10%), but the veterinary formulations are more suitable for dogs or cats.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.
"Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals."
Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.
Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.
How do I give my pet benzoyl peroxide topical?
- Benzoyl peroxide topical products are available as gels, shampoos, or cream rinses for topical (on the skin) use.
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions on how to apply the treatment.
- Benzoyl peroxide topical should be used for only a few weeks at a time because it can be extremely drying to the skin.
- It is recommended to follow shampoo treatments with a moisturizing skin conditioner to reduce dryness.
- Avoid contact with the eyes or mucous membranes.
- Keep treated pets away from fabrics during treatment, as benzoyl peroxide will bleach colored fabrics, jewelry, clothing, or carpets and might bleach your pet’s haircoat.
- Do not let your pet lick or chew at treated areas for a few minutes after application.
- Wear gloves when applying this medication. Benzoyl peroxide causes photosensitivity in humans.
Benzoyl peroxide topical generally improves the clinical signs of bacterial skin infections within three to four weeks, with proper use and application of the products.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose of benzoyl peroxide topical; apply it as soon as you remember and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects from benzoyl peroxide topical?
Benzoyl peroxide topical may cause the following side effects:
- dry skin
- minor skin irritation
- redness of the skin
- itchiness
- pain at localized site of application
- photosensitivity (limit sun exposure for dogs with light or thin coats)
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
This medication has no known or documented risk factors. If your pet has a known sensitivity to benzoyl peroxide topical, your vet may recommend starting with a product containing a lower percentage of the medication.
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
There are no documented drug interactions for this medication. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
Talk to your veterinarian about:
- when will your animal need to be rechecked
- what tests may need to be performed before and during treatment with this drug
How do I store benzoyl peroxide topical?
- Follow the specific storage recommendations for each product.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Ask your veterinarian for disposal instructions. Do not flush medicines down the sink or toilet unless instructed to do so.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
