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What Are The Repercussions Of Accidental Ingestion Of Benzoyl Peroxide?
Thank you. My 98 y.o. father has been using 10% benzoyl peroxide topically for acne for years. he has just informed me that he has been ingesting small amounts the past few days for constipation! It worked to relieve that, but I took it away from him, telling him that this is for topical use only. What can happen to him, as far as negative effects, since he ingested the medication (less than an ounce over 2-3 days)?
posted on
Sun, 3 Jan 2016
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Fri, 5 Feb 2016
Answered on
Wed, 19 Jul 2017
Last reviewed on
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
If there is pre existing organ damage eg damage to the liver or kidney, then the ingestion of the benzoyl peroxide may worsen this.
This is more common with ingestion of larger amounts.
Nausea and vomiting can also occur but again this is more likely with larger quantities.
Since he used only a small amount, he may not have any problems.
I hope this helps
If there is pre existing organ damage eg damage to the liver or kidney, then the ingestion of the benzoyl peroxide may worsen this.
This is more common with ingestion of larger amounts.
Nausea and vomiting can also occur but again this is more likely with larger quantities.
Since he used only a small amount, he may not have any problems.
I hope this helps
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