Product image of Licostrata (Hydroquinone) supplied by GNH India

Licostrata

Active Ingredient:
Hydroquinone
Origin:
EU

Licostrata (Hydroquinone)

Hydroquinone, the active ingredient in Licostrata, is a skin depigmenting agent presented as a topical formulation for topical use. It is employed to reduce excess melanin in conditions such as melasma, age spots and post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
GNH India supplies Licostrata as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Industrial Farmaceutica Cantabria, S.A.

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Indications & Clinical Uses

Hydroquinone is used in dermatology to address hyperpigmentation disorders.

  • Melasma: lightens dark patches on the face caused by hormonal influences.
  • Age spots: reduces the appearance of sun‑induced lentigines.
  • Post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation: fades discoloration after skin injury or inflammation.
  • Other hyperpigmentation disorders: improves uneven skin tone in various pigmentary conditions.

How It Works

  • Hydroquinone inhibits the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, a key catalyst in melanin synthesis within melanocytes. By blocking tyrosinase, it reduces the conversion of tyrosine to dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) and subsequently to melanin, leading to a gradual lightening of hyperpigmented skin areas.

Side Effects

Hydroquinone may cause a range of skin reactions, from mild irritation to rare severe events.

Common Side Effects

  • Skin irritation: redness, itching or burning at the application site.
  • Dryness: flaking or peeling of treated skin.
  • Mild erythema: temporary redness.
  • Hyperpigmentation rebound: darkening after discontinuation.
  • Contact dermatitis: allergic skin reaction.
  • Pruritus: localized itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Exogenous ochronosis: bluish‑black discoloration with prolonged use.
  • Severe allergic reaction: swelling, hives or difficulty breathing.
  • Skin ulceration: breakdown of skin integrity.
  • Persistent depigmentation: lasting loss of normal skin colour.
  • Photo‑sensitivity: increased sunburn risk.
  • Systemic absorption effects: unlikely but reported in extensive use.

Precautions & Warnings

When using Licostrata, consider the following safety measures.

  • Avoid application on broken or inflamed skin: may increase irritation.
  • Limit sun exposure: hydroquinone can heighten photosensitivity; use sunscreen.
  • Do not use on large body areas: risk of systemic absorption.
  • Discontinue if severe irritation occurs: seek medical advice.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: safety not established; avoid unless prescribed.
  • Store at below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Avoid Interactions

Hydroquinone can interact with other topical agents and systemic drugs. Major Interactions (Avoid):\n- Concurrent use with other depigmenting agents (e.g., tretinoin, corticosteroids) without medical supervision: may increase irritation.

  • Application with strong chemical peels: heightened risk of burns.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Use with photosensitizing drugs (e.g., tetracyclines, retinoids): monitor for increased sun sensitivity.
  • Combination with other skin lighteners: adjust frequency to reduce adverse effects.
  • Interaction with systemic antioxidants: may alter efficacy, observe response.

Frequently Asked Questions

Licostrata, containing hydroquinone, is indicated for the treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders such as melasma, age spots, post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation and other pigmentary skin conditions where reduction of excess melanin is desired.

Hydroquinone works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is essential for melanin production in melanocytes. By blocking this pathway, the drug reduces melanin synthesis, leading to gradual lightening of darkened skin areas.

The dosage of Licostrata is determined by the prescribing clinician based on the severity of the hyperpigmentation, the area to be treated and patient tolerance. The prescriber will specify the amount and frequency of application.

Safety of hydroquinone in pregnancy and lactation has not been established. It is generally advised to avoid use unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk and the prescriber explicitly recommends it.

To request Licostrata, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com with the required quantity. GNH India works with hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details and any necessary import documentation.

Licostrata’s active ingredient, hydroquinone, is considered a gold‑standard depigmenting agent due to its potent tyrosinase inhibition. Alternatives such as azelaic acid or kojic acid may be less effective but often have a lower irritation profile. Choice depends on efficacy needs, skin tolerance and prescriber preference.

Licostrata should be stored at temperatures below 25 °C, in its original packaging, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Maintaining these conditions helps preserve product stability and potency.

Licostrata is a topical product applied to clean, dry skin. The prescriber will advise the amount (usually a thin layer) and frequency, often once or twice daily, avoiding the eyes, mouth and broken skin.

Serious risks, though rare, include exogenous ochronosis (a bluish‑black discoloration with prolonged use), severe allergic reactions such as angioedema, and persistent depigmentation of normal skin. Patients should report any unusual skin changes promptly.

Licostrata should be avoided by individuals with known hypersensitivity to hydroquinone or any formulation components, those with broken or inflamed skin in the treatment area, and patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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