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Cerave SA

Generic name: salicylic acid topical [SAL-i-SIL-ik-AS-id-TOP-ik-al]
Brand names: Acnevir, Bensal HP, cerave SA, cerave SA Renewing, Clean, and Clear Blackhead Eraser Facial Scrub,… Show all 65 brands
Drug Classes: Topical Acne Agents, Topical Keratolytics

What is Cerave SA?

Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent (peeling) that causes the shedding of outer skin layers. Cerave (for the skin) is used to treat acne, scalp dandruff, or seborrhea. It can also be used to remove warts, corns, and calluses. Cerave SA can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Cerave SA

Cerave SA may cause an allergic reaction that is rare but severe. These reactions can occur within minutes of applying the medicine or even a day later. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using cerave SA immediately and seek emergency medical attention: hives; itching; difficulty breathing; feeling lightheaded; swelling on your face, lips, or tongue; or a swollen throat, face, lip, or tongue.

Stop using cerave SA immediately and consult your doctor if:

  • Severe headache; ringing in the ears; hearing problems; mental problems
  • Severe stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhoea.
  • Feeling dizzy as though they could pass out.
  • Shortness of breath
  • Severe burning, irritation, or dryness of the skin.

Some of the common side effects associated with cerave SA include:

  • Minor skin irritation; rash or peeling
  • Changes in the colour (usually whitening) of treated skin

There may be other side effects. Call your doctor if experiencing side effects; alternatively, reach out to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report them.

Warnings

Cerave SA may cause an allergic reaction, which can be severe, and skin irritation. If you experience hives or itching, difficulty breathing, lightheadedness, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat, stop using the medicine immediately.

Before you take this drug

Cerave SA should not be used if you have an allergy to it. Cerave SA can be used to treat a child with the flu or chickenpox. This may cause Reye’s syndrome, a fatal or serious condition.

If you suffer from:

  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Diabetes
  • Blood circulation problems

Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant or nursing.

How to take Cerave SA?

Cerave SA comes in a variety of forms, including liquids, gels, creams, lotions, ointments, foams, soaps, shampoos, cloth pads, and skin patches. Please follow all directions outlined on your label or prescribed by a medical provider. Take it only by mouth. Topical medicines are only to be used on the skin.

Cerave SA may cause an allergic reaction that is rare but severe. It can also cause severe skin irritation. As a "test dosage", apply a small amount to one or two small areas of skin every day for three consecutive days. On the fourth day, if you don't have an adverse reaction to the medication, use the full amount prescribed. Shake the medication before using. Please follow all instructions on the label. Cerave SA should not be used to treat any condition not checked by your physician. Your symptoms could take several days to improve. If your symptoms don't improve or worsen, call your doctor. Keep this medicine at room temperature and away from heat, moisture, and Foam canisters must be stored away from flames or heat sources to reduce any risk of explosion. Should it become overheated, its contents could become unstable and cause it to burst open unexpectedly. Empty aerosol canisters should not be punctured or burned.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Cerave SA can be used as needed. You can skip a missed dose if you follow a schedule. Never use two doses in one go.

What happens if I overdose?

Should anyone accidentally consume medication, seek emergency medical assistance immediately or contact Poison Help immediately on 1-800-222-1222 for advice and support.

What should be avoided?

Cerave SA should not be used on wounds that are open or sunburned or windburned or on skin that is dry or irritated. If this medication gets into your eyes or mouth, rinse with plenty of water immediately. This medicine is flammable. Avoid using near-open flames or high heat. Before using a hair styler (such as a straightening or curling iron), wash your hands to remove the medicine. The medicine could ignite and burn the skin if heated to high temperatures. Smoking is not allowed until the gel has dried completely on your skin. If your doctor has not instructed you otherwise, do not use other medications to treat the same areas that you have treated with cerave SA.

Interaction with other drug

Inform your doctor of all medicines you take, both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.Inform your doctor of all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal remedies.