monobenzone

Monobenzone is a small molecule depigmenting agent used primarily for the treatment of vitiligo. It is the monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone and acts by increasing the excretion of melanin from melanocytes and may also cause destruction of melanocytes leading to permanent depigmentation. The mechanism involves selective interaction with tyrosinase—the rate-limiting enzyme in melanin synthesis—resulting in its inactivation and formation of toxic quinones that bind to melanosomal proteins. This process can increase immunogenicity against melanocyte antigens and induce systemic immunity. Monobenzone is applied topically to even out skin color in patients with extensive vitiligo but is not indicated for other pigmentation disorders[1][2][3][4][5][6][8]. Monobenzone may cause permanent skin sensitivity to sunlight and should only be used under medical supervision for appropriate indications such as extensive vitiligo[2]. It has also been investigated experimentally as an adjunct therapy for melanoma due to its immunogenic effects on melanocyte antigens[6][8].

Brand names

Benoquin

Other names

hydroquinone benzyl etherhydroquinone monobenzyl etherbenzyl p-hydroxyphenyl etherbenzyl hydroquinonebenzoquin4-(phenylmethoxy)phenol4-(benzyloxy)phenolmonobenzyl ether of hydroquinone