Three lawsuits filed in federal court allege that certain acne medications may contain dangerous levels of benzene, possibly putting people who use them at risk of serious harm. The lawsuits claim that these medications, which are sold and distributed over the counter across the United States, are more dangerous than advertised, and may not be safe to store for as long as labeled. This was confirmed by laboratory testing, which found in extreme cases that the medications could have potentially up to 800 times the legal limit for benzene in their products.

What Are These Medications?

The acne medications named in the lawsuit are sold over the counter under a number of brands, including Proactiv, Clearasil, and PanOxyl, and can be found at stores like Target, Walgreens and Walmart. The common factor is that they contain a chemical known as benzoyl peroxide, which is used as an antibacterial agent in treatments for mild-to-moderate acne. Under current FDA standards, benzoyl peroxide is considered safe for use as directed when stored at room temperature.

What Do the Lawsuits Allege?

According to lawsuits, independent laboratory testing found that these acne products could contain unsafe levels of benzene. Federal regulations maintain that benzene should be at no higher than two parts per million (ppm), but even when kept at room temperature as directed, they could potentially have benzene present at up to 24 ppm. When kept in warmer temperatures (up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit), the amount of benzene could rise to 1600 ppm, or about 800 times the federal legal limit.

What Are the Risks of Benzene Exposure?

Benzene is a chemical commonly used in a number of industrial processes, and is used to make things such as gasoline, nylon, resins, and certain synthetic fibers. The immediate symptoms of benzene poisoning include headaches, nausea, dizziness, tremors, confusion, and unconsciousness. Long-term exposure has also been associated with anemia, and it is known to increase the risk of leukemia and certain blood cancers.

What Should You Do?

According to current FDA standards, acne products containing benzoyl peroxide are safe for use when stored at room temperature prior to their expiration date. However, you should be wary when using older products, especially if they have been stored in warmer temperatures, which can cause the benzoyl peroxide to degrade more quickly into benzene. If you begin to experience symptoms associated with benzene exposure after using one of these products, you should seek immediate medical attention and speak to a lawyer who can assist you with your case.

If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you should contact the Tennessee personal injury lawyers at the Keith Williams Law Group. With convenient offices located in Nashville and Lebanon, our lawyers will work with you to create a litigation strategy that protects your legal rights and serves your personal needs. For more information or a free consultation, please contact us at 615-444-2900 or visit our contact page.