Brand Name(s): Eldopaque, Eldopaque Forte, Eldoquin-Forte Sunbleaching, Esoterica Facial, Esoterica Regular, Esoterica Sunscreen, Melquin HP, NeoStrata AHA Gel for Age Spots and Skin Lightening, Nuquin HP, Solaquin, Solarquin Forte

Generic Name Hydroquinone Topical

What is hydroquinone cream, gel or solution?

HYDROQUINONE (Eldopaque Forte^®, Eldoquin^®, Eldoquin Forte^®, Esoterica^® Medicated Fade Cream, Glyquin^®, Lustra^®, Melanex^®, Melpaque HP^®, Melquin HP^®, NeoStrata AHA^®, Nuquin HP^®, Porcelana^®, Solaquin^®, Solaquin Forte^®, Viquin Forte^®) is applied to the skin to lighten areas that have darkened (hyperpigmented). Hydroquinone will work best if you avoid excessive exposure to sunlight and wear sunscreens and protective clothing; some hydroquinone products contain sunscreens and other cosmetic ingredients. Some products are available only with a prescription. Generic hydroquinone skin cream, gel, or solution is available.

What should my health care professional know before I use hydroquinone?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• an unusual or allergic reaction to hydroquinone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Hydroquinone is for external use only, do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Make sure the skin is clean and dry. Apply just enough to cover the affected area. Rub in gently but completely. Do not apply near the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. Wash your hands after applying.

If you are using other topical medications, apply them at different times of the day.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with hydroquinone?

• benzoyl peroxide

Check with your prescriber if you are using other medications which are applied to the skin.

Non-medicated cosmetics, sunscreens, and moisturizing lotions may be worn over the hydroquinone preparation. However, wait several minutes after application of hydroquinone before applying them.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from using hydroquinone?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately:

• severe burning, itching, crusting, or swelling of the treated areas
• unusual skin discoloration

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):

• mild itching or stinging
• reddening of the skin

What should I watch for while taking hydroquinone?

Contact your prescriber or health care professional if your condition does not improve in the first two months or if the medication causes too much skin irritation.

Do not get hydroquinone in the eyes, inside the nose, on wounds, or any other sensitive areas of skin. If accidental contact occurs, large amounts of water should be used to was the affected area. If the eyes are involved and eye irritation persists after thoroughly washing, contact your prescriber.

Do not apply to sunburned areas or if you have a skin abrasion in the area of application. To increase the chance that hydroquinone will be effective, keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher). Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 °C (59 and 86 °F); do not freeze.