Other Brands/Names

Albavance F, Bioquin, Eqinon, Farmaquin, Innaquin, Lumiquin, Mediquin, Melanox, Melanox Forte, Melaskin, Melaskin-TF, Melaqiderm, Melaquin, Obagi Nu-Derm Clear, Quinosen, Refaquin, Skinnesse HQ, Tricodion, Ufiquin, and Vitaquin

Mechanism of Action

Hydroquinone works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the formation of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. By inhibiting melanin production, hydroquinone helps fade hyperpigmentation such as dark spots, melasma, and acne scars. This medication is generally used as a topical cream and applied directly to the affected skin area.

Indications

Hydroquinone is indicated for the treatment of various skin hyperpigmentation conditions, such as melasma, lentigines (age spots), freckles, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne or skin irritation. This medication is used to lighten areas of skin darkened by excess melanin production. Hydroquinone is usually recommended as a short-term topical therapy and should be used as directed by a healthcare professional to prevent side effects and ensure treatment effectiveness.

Contraindications

Hydroquinone is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity or allergy to hydroquinone or any other component in the formulation. This medication is also not recommended for use on skin with open wounds, severe irritation, or active infections.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using hydroquinone unless advised and supervised by a doctor, as its safety in these groups has not been fully established. Long-term use is also not recommended, as it may increase the risk of serious side effects such as ochronosis.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of hydroquinone include mild skin irritation such as redness, burning, itching, or dryness at the application site. Hydroquinone should be used under a doctor's supervision, as long-term use or high doses can cause skin irritation or other side effects such as ochronosis (permanent darkening of the skin). Allergic reactions can also occur, although rarely, and are characterized by a severe rash, swelling, or severe itching. To reduce the risk of side effects, hydroquinone should be used as directed by a doctor and avoided on damaged or sensitive skin.

Preparations

Hydroquinone is available in topical formulations, typically creams, gels, or ointments, in varying concentrations, such as 2% for over-the-counter use and 4% or higher for prescription use. These formulations are designed to be applied directly to hyperpigmented skin areas.

In some products, hydroquinone is also combined with other ingredients such as tretinoin or corticosteroids to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. The choice of formulation and concentration depends on the patient's skin condition and the severity of the hyperpigmentation.

Dosage

A commonly used dose of hydroquinone is a topical cream with a concentration of 2% to 4%, applied thinly to the hyperpigmented skin area once or twice daily, as directed by your doctor.

The dosage should be adjusted based on the patient's skin condition and response to treatment. Avoid applying hydroquinone to large areas of skin or in excessive amounts, as this can increase the risk of irritation or other side effects. Long-term use is also not recommended, and if no improvement is seen within 2 to 3 months, you should consult your doctor again.

Safety of Drugs

Hydroquinone is classified as a pregnancy category C by the FDA, meaning animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no adequately controlled studies in humans. Therefore, its use during pregnancy should be avoided unless the benefits outweigh the risks.

It is not known whether hydroquinone is absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts after topical application or whether it passes into breast milk, so use by breastfeeding mothers should be approached with caution and under medical supervision.

Drug Interactions

Hydroquinone is generally used topically and has a low risk of drug interactions. However, caution should be exercised when used in conjunction with other skin products containing active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, or salicylic acid. This combination can increase the risk of skin irritation or cause reactions such as redness and peeling.

Concurrent use with photosensitizing products can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Therefore, when using hydroquinone, it is recommended to avoid excessive sun exposure and always use sunscreen to prevent further irritation or hyperpigmentation.

Looking for more information about other drugs? Click here!