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Active pharmaceutical ingredient

Arbutin

Arbutin is a naturally occurring compound found in various plants, renowned for its skin-lightening and depigmenting properties.

Compounded to order
Prescription required
Warwick, Rhode Island

About this ingredient

Arbutin is a naturally occurring compound found in various plant species, renowned for its skin-lightening and depigmenting properties. It is commonly used in dermatological formulations to address hyperpigmentation, melasma, and age spots, making it a popular choice among prescribers seeking effective treatments for uneven skin tone.

As a derivative of hydroquinone, arbutin offers a safer alternative with reduced risk of irritation and side effects, which is particularly beneficial for patients with sensitive skin. Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of tyrosinase, an enzyme crucial in the production of melanin, thereby reducing pigmentation and promoting a more even complexion.

Arbutin is available in both alpha and beta forms, with alpha-arbutin being more stable and potent, thus preferred in pharmaceutical formulations. This API is often incorporated into compounded formulations to tailor treatments to individual patient needs, enhancing therapeutic outcomes.

In addition to its skin-lightening effects, arbutin also exhibits antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage. This dual action makes it a valuable component in comprehensive skincare regimens aimed at improving skin health and appearance.

Available formulations

Compounded formulations containing this ingredient

Each of these is compounded to order at our Warwick, Rhode Island pharmacy and requires a prescription.

We do not have a patient page for this ingredient yet. That does not mean we cannot make it. Bayview compounds this ingredient to a prescriber's order, and our full compounding formulary lists every preparation we make. Viewing the formulary requires a prescriber account.

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Compounding formulary

Formulas we compound with this ingredient

A sample of preparations from our formulary. Strengths and dose forms are customised to the prescription.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

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Related

Related active ingredients

Other salt forms of this molecule, and ingredients commonly compounded alongside it.

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Important information

This page describes an active pharmaceutical ingredient, not a finished drug product. Bayview Pharmacy compounds preparations containing it only on a prescriber's order for an individual patient.

Compounded preparations are not FDA-approved, and the FDA has not evaluated them for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality. Nothing on this page is a claim that any preparation is effective for any condition.

A valid prescription is required. Availability depends on Bayview's licensure in your state. This page is general information, not medical advice — discuss your situation with a licensed healthcare provider.

Talk to a compounding pharmacist

Our pharmacists work with prescribers to build preparations around a patient's dose, form and tolerances. Ask us what is possible with this ingredient.