Inova 8-2 : Uses, Side Effects, Interactions & More

Inova 8-2 ( Salicylic Acid-Benzoyl Peroxide)

What is Inova 8/2

Inova 8/2 has an antibacterial effect. It also has a mild drying effect that allows excess oil and dirt to be washed away.
Salicylic acid is a peeling agent that causes shedding of the outer layer of skin.
Inova 8/2 and salicylic acid topical (for the skin) is a combination medicine used to treat severe acne.
Inova 8/2 is not for use in treating mild forms of acne. The strength of Inova 8/2 contained in Inova 8/2 is higher than that used in many over-the-counter acne products. Severe skin irritation can result from improper use of this product.
Inova 8/2 and salicylic acid topical may also be used for purposes not listed in Inova 8/2 guide.

Inova 8/2 side effects

Inova 8/2 and salicylic acid topical can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. These reactions may occur just a few minutes after you apply the medicine, or within a day or longer afterward.
Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives, itching; difficult breathing, feeling light-headed; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using Inova 8/2 and salicylic acid topical and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • severe skin irritation after using the medicine;
  • scaly or peeling skin;
  • redness or swelling of treated skin; or
  • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.


Common side effects may include:

  • dry skin or mild irritation;
  • dizziness; or
  • ringing in your ears.


This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Before using, wash affected area with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Use the medicated pad to apply the medicine to the affected area. Do not apply to raw or irritated skin. Avoid getting medicine in your eyes, lips, nose, mouth, or other sensitive areas. Do not wash treated areas of skin for at least 1 hour after using the medicine. If you experience very dry and peeling skin or skin irritation, talk to your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What may interact with this medicine?

• adapalene
• isotretinoin
• salicylic acid or sulfur containing products
• topical antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin
• tretinoin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your acne may get worse during the first few weeks of treatment, and then start to get better. It may take 8 to 12 weeks before you see the full effect. If you do not see any improvement within 4 to 6 weeks, call your doctor or health care professional.

Once you see a decrease in your acne, you may need to continue to use this medicine to control it.

Do not use products that may dry the skin like medicated cosmetics, products that contain alcohol, or abrasive soaps or cleaners. Do not use other acne or skin treatment on the same area that you use this medicine unless your doctor or health care professional tells you to. If you use these together they can cause severe skin irritation.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

This medicine may bleach hair or colored fabrics. Avoid getting the medicine on your clothes.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Disclaimer: DrLinex has made every effort to ensure that all information is factually accurate, comprehensive and up-to-date. However, this article should not be used as a licensed health care professional’s choice of knowledge and expertise. You should always consult your doctor or other health care professional before taking any medication. The information given here is subject to change and it has not been used to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions or adverse effects. The lack of warning or other information for any drug does not indicate that the combination of medicine or medication is safe, effective or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

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