Mequinol
Mequinol is a topical depigmenting agent used to treat hyperpigmentation disorders, particularly solar lentigines (age spots) and other sun-induced skin discolorations. It works by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme essential for melanin production, thereby lightening areas of excess pigmentation. This medication is typically prescribed for adult patients with noticeable benign pigmented lesions.
Mequinol is a topical skin-lightening agent used to treat age spots and other hyperpigmentation conditions by inhibiting melanin production.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D11AX06
- RxNorm
- 15080
- Generic
- Mequinol
- Class
- atc-d11
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks - limited data available
regular prenatal checkups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
use only if clearly needed - consult healthcare provider
routine prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh risks - avoid near delivery
routine prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid application to breast area
avoid breastfeeding mothers unless benefits outweigh risks - minimal systemic absorption expected
monitor infant for any skin reactions
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
under 12 yearsnot recommended
not recommended for use in children due to limited safety data
close supervision if used
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyno specific adjustment needed
can be used in elderly patients with standard precautions - skin sensitivity may be increased
monitor for skin irritation
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no dosage adjustment required - minimal systemic absorption with topical use
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no dosage adjustment required - minimal systemic absorption
standard monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
FDA Approval Year
FDA approval for topical depigmenting preparations
Drug class
Topical skin depigmenting agent
Common uses
Topical application for skin lightening
Mechanism of action
Primary pharmacological mechanism
Mequinol is primarily used to treat solar lentigines (age spots, liver spots, or sun spots) and other benign hyperpigmented skin lesions caused by sun exposure or aging. It may also be used for other forms of localized hyperpigmentation as determined by a healthcare provider.
Mequinol acts as a competitive inhibitor of tyrosinase, the copper-containing enzyme crucial for the first step in melanin (pigment) synthesis. By blocking this enzyme, it reduces the production of melanin in treated areas, leading to gradual lightening of hyperpigmented skin lesions.
Mequinol is for external use only and should be applied only to the affected areas as directed by a physician. It is essential to use sun protection measures (sunscreen, protective clothing) during treatment, as sun exposure can worsen pigmentation. Common side effects may include skin irritation, redness, or mild burning at the application site. This medication should not be used during pregnancy, in children, or on mucous membranes.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy