Epiduo is the FDA approved combination
topical prescription medication for acne, made by Galaderma.
Epiduo combines adapalene, a
third generation retinoid with benzoyl peroxide.
Retinoids are synthetic Vitamin A derivatives. The first generation
topical retinoid, Retin-A, has been used successfully to treat acne for
decades. Adapalene, known as the prescription cream Differin, is an effective topical retinoid for acne skin
care, with fewer irritating side effects in some patients that Retin A.
Retinoids are thought to work primarily on the plugged pores or comedones of
acne, by improving the way the skin cells turn over, or differentiate, so that
plugging or obstruction of the pores is less likely.
The second component of Epiduo is benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide has been widely used to
treat acne for its effect on acne bacteria and well as its mild effect on
reducing comedones. In recent years, benzoyl peroxide has been
effectively combined with topical antibiotics to reduce resistance of bacteria
to antibiotics.
A new acne study reported in Cutis
Stein Gold L, et al "Effective and safe combination therapy for
severe acne vulgaris: a randomized, vehicle-controlled, double-blind
study of adapalene 0.1%-benzoyl peroxide 2.5% fixed-dose combination gel
with doxycycline hyclate 100 mg" Cutis 2010; 85: 94-104.
Suggests that the combination of Epiduo with oral antibiotic therapy Doxycycline may result in faster and greater improvement in moderate to severe acne than the oral antibiotic alone.
Editor's Note:
Both
adapalene and benzoyl peroxide can cause skin irritation in some people.
Benzoyl peroxide has been associated contact allergic dermatitis and can bleach
clothes, towels, rugs etc.
Do not use if pregnant, nursing or might become pregnant while using.
Do not share your skin care products.