Epiduo Gel (Adapalene and Benzoyl Peroxide Gel) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 22, 2012

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Epiduo Gel

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EPIDUO
(adapalene and benzoyl peroxide)

DRUG DESCRIPTION

EPIDUO (adapalene and benzoyle peroxide) gel, 0.1%/2.5% is a white to very pale yellow, opaque gel for topical use containing adapalene 0.1% and benzoyl peroxide 2.5%.

Adapalene, a synthetic retinoid, is a naphthoic acid derivative with retinoid-like properties. The chemical name for adapalene is (6-[3-(1-adamantyl)-4-methoxyphenyl]-2- naphthoic acid). It has the following structural formula:

Adapalene:

Molecular formula: C₂₈H₂₈O₃ Molecular weight: 412.5

Benzoyl Peroxide is a highly lipophilic oxidizing agent that localizes in both bacterial and keratinocyte cell membranes.

The chemical name for benzoyl peroxide is dibenzoyl peroxide. It has the following structural formula:

Benzoyl Peroxide:

Molecular formula: C₁₄H₁₀O₄ Molecular weight: 242.23

EPIDUO gel contains the following inactive ingredients: acrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate copolymer, docusate sodium, edetate disodium, glycerin, isohexadecane, poloxamer 124, polysorbate 80, propylene glycol, purified water, and sorbitan oleate.

What are the possible side effects of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide topical (Epiduo)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

During your first 4 weeks of using adapalene and benzoyl peroxide topical, your skin may be dry, red, or scaly. You may also feel some burning or stinging. Call your doctor if these side effects are severe.

Less serious side effects may include mild itching.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Epiduo Gel »

What are the precautions when taking adapalene and benzoyl peroxide gel (Epiduo Gel)?

Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to adapalene or benzoyl peroxide; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: other skin conditions (such as eczema).

This drug may bleach hair or colored fabric (such as clothing, bedding, and towels). Use caution when applying near the hairline, while dressing, and while choosing towel and bed sheet colors (if leaving on the skin overnight).

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use...

Read All Potential Precautions of Epiduo Gel »

Last reviewed on RxList: 1/5/2012
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.