Epiduo 0.1%/2.5% Gel

Epiduo Gel combines two active ingredients, adapalene and benzoyl peroxide, which work together but in different ways. Adapalene belongs to a group of products known as retinoids and acts specifically on the skin processes that cause acne. The other active ingredient, benzoyl peroxide, works as an antimicrobial agent and by softening and peeling the outer layer of the skin.

Do not use Epiduo Gel if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to adapalene, benzoyl peroxide or any of the other ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet.

Epiduo should not be used during pregnancy. Epiduo can be used during breastfeeding. To avoid contact exposure of the infant, application of Epiduo to the chest must be avoided. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine.

You must tell your doctor if you are taking, have recently taken or might take other medicines, in particular:

• other acne products (containing benzoyl peroxide and / or retinoids) at the same time as Epiduo
• at the same time as cosmetics that are irritant, drying or exfoliate the skin

• dry skin
• local skin rash (irritative contact dermatitis)
• burning sensation
• irritation of the skin
• redness
• scaling

Further products available include Zineryt (topical antibiotic), Differin (topical retinoid) and Skinoren (azelaic acid). Duac Once Daily is another combination treatment available including benzoyl peroxide plus a topical antibiotic.

Other treatments for more severe acne are also available such as Roaccutane (isotretinoin) and Dianette (a contraceptive pill for women only). These treatments need to be monitored closely and can only be prescribed by your GP or specialist dermatologist.