Drug Reference

Hydroquinone

Other dermatologicals

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OTC

Fact box

Therapeutic class
Other dermatologicals
Action class
Melanin Synthesis Inhibitor
Mechanism
Melanin Synthesis Inhibitors
Habit forming
No
Availability
Over-the-counter (OTC)

Brand names

EpiQuin MicroLustraNeova Complex HQ PlusRemergent HQTri-Luma

Available as

20 MG/ML · Topical Solution0.1 MG/ML · Topical Cream40 MG/ML20 MG/ML · Topical Cream40 MG/ML · Topical Cream0.02 MG/MG · Topical Gel30 MG/ML · Topical Solution20 MG/ML40 MG/ML · Topical Solution0.04 MG/MG · Topical Gel

FDA label sections are from openFDA and may not reflect the most recent labeling — confirm against the current DailyMed label.

Uses
Uses Uses ■ For the gradual fading of age spots ■ Lightens dark pigment in the skin ■This product provides minimal SPF protection.
How to use / dosing
Directions Directions ■ Adult topical dosage is a thin layer to the affected area once or twicedaily■There is no recommended dosage for children under 12 years of age except under the advice and supervision of a doctor ■ Keep refrigerated

Safety advice

Conservative summary derived from FDA labeling — defaults to “consult your doctor” unless the label is explicit. Not a substitute for your clinician’s advice.

PregnancyNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
BreastfeedingNo information
No specific information in the FDA label. Check LactMed →
AlcoholNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
DrivingNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
KidneyNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
LiverNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
Warnings & precautions
Warnings Warnings ■Sun exposure should be avoided indefinitely by using a high SPF sunscreen agent, a sunblocking agent, or protective clothing to cover bleached skin in order to prevent darkening from reoccurring ■ Do not get into eyes ■Keep out of reach of children ■For external use only ■Not recommended for children under 12 years of age ■ If swallowed get medical help or contact a poison control center immediately.
Current FDA labels (DailyMed)

15 marketed products on record (RxNorm)

Authoritative sources

Reference only — not clinical advice. Verify against current FDA labeling and consult a licensed provider. About half of pediatric drug use is off-label and is not reflected in FDA labels; absence of pediatric information does not mean a medicine is unused or unsafe in children.