Epiduo

Generic name: Adapalene And Benzoyl Peroxide (topical)
Drug class: Topical acne agents

Usage of Epiduo

Epiduo gel contains a combination of adapalene and Benzoyl peroxide. Adapalene is similar to vitamin A. It helps the skin renew itself. Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect. It also has a mild drying effect, which allows excess oils and dirt to be easily washed away from the skin.

Epiduo gel is used to treat acne vulgaris (severe acne) in people who are at least 9 years old.

Epiduo side effects

Benzoyl peroxide can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have: hives, itching; difficult breathing, feeling light-headed; or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Epiduo may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

severe redness or swelling of treated skin;

severe burning or stinging; or

severe dryness or other skin irritation.

Common Epiduo side effects may include:

dry or scaly skin;

skin redness; or

burning or stinging.

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.

Before taking Epiduo

You should not use Epiduo gel if you are allergic to adapalene (Differin) or benzoyl peroxide.

To make sure Epiduo is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

other skin problems, including cuts, abrasions, sunburn, or eczema.

It is not known whether Epiduo will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.

It is not known whether adapalene or benzoyl peroxide passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

If you breastfeed, avoid applying this medicine to your nipple area.

Epiduo gel should not be used on a child younger than 9 years old.

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How to use Epiduo

Usual Adult Dose for Acne:

Usual dose: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day Comments: -The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application. -A pea-sized amount should be used for each area of the face (e.g., forehead, chin, each cheek). Use: Topical treatment of acne vulgaris

Usual Pediatric Dose for Acne:

Adapalene 0.1%/Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% Gel 9 years and older: -Usual dose: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day Comments: -The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application. -A pea-sized amount should be used for each area of the face (e.g., forehead, chin, each cheek). Adapalene 0.3%/Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% Gel 12 years and older: -Usual dose: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day Comments: -The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application. -A pea-sized amount should be used for each area of the face (e.g., forehead, chin, each cheek). Use: Topical treatment of acne vulgaris

Warnings

Before using Epiduo gel, tell your doctor about all other medicated skin products you are using. Using more than one acne medication at a time could cause severe skin irritation.

Avoid getting Epiduo gel in your mouth, nose, or eyes, or on your lips. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse with water. Do not use Epiduo gel on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, irritated, or broken skin. Also avoid using Epiduo gel on wounds or on areas of eczema. Wait until these conditions have healed before using this medication.

Avoid using skin products that can cause dryness or irritation, such as harsh soaps, shampoos, or skin cleansers, hair removers or waxes, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime.

What other drugs will affect Epiduo

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Disclaimer

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