Epiduo gel is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of acne vulgaris; it kills the bacteria that cause acne and keeps the skin pores clean. Epiduo gel is a combination medication that combines adapalene and benzoyl peroxide to treat acne.

Apply a thin layer of Epiduo Gel, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription or package label carefully, and apply Epiduo gel exactly as directed. Wash your hands before applying Epiduo gel. Use your fingertips to apply a small amount of medication (about the size of a pea) to the affected areas of the skin. Gently clean the affected skin with a mild or soapless cleanser and pat dry.

Use Epiduo Gel on the skin only. Do not apply to the inner lip area, inside the nose/mouth, or on mucous membranes. Do not apply to cut, scraped, sunburned or eczema-affected skin. Avoid getting Epiduo Gel in your eyes. If this medication gets into your eyes, flush them with large amounts of water. Please wash your hands after using Epiduo Gel to avoid accidentally getting it in your eyes.

During the first few weeks of using Epiduo Gel, your acne might appear worse because the medication works on pimples inside the skin.

Use Epiduo gel regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Please do not use a larger amount or use it more frequently than recommended. Your skin will not improve any faster, and it will increase the risk of developing redness, peeling, and pain.

Before using Epiduo Gel, the following considerations should be made:

Allergies

• Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or other medicines. 

Drug Interactions

• Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking other or nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicine.

Other Interactions

•  Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. 

Medical history, especially:

• Eczema (skin disorder) or
• Sunburn—Should not be used in patients with these conditions.

Epiduo Gel may cause side effects. The following symptoms will likely affect your skin during the first 2-4 weeks of treatment. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• redness
• scaling
• dryness
• burning or stinging
• itching

Protect yourself from sunlight and sunlamps while taking Epiduo Gel, and talk to your doctor about the other side effects of this medication.

How should you store Epiduo Gel?

Keep Epiduo Gel in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. 

How should you dispose of Epiduo Gel?

Unneeded Epiduo Gel should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and others cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program.

How should you apply a moisturizer with Epiduo Gel?

A moisturizer with Epiduo Gel can help lessen dry, irritated skin.
But if you have acne, it’s important to use a moisturizer that won’t cause acne breakouts. Moisturizers, “oil-free” or “noncomedogenic,” are less likely to clog your pores and cause acne.

Talk to your doctor if you have questions about using a certain moisturizer with Epiduo Gel. They may be able to recommend a specific moisturizer that would be best for you.

How should you use Epiduo gel?

Use Epiduo gel exactly as your doctor has prescribed it for you. 
Epiduo is usually applied once a day. Use a pea-sized amount of the thin gel layer, rub it gently, and allow it to dry completely before dressing—clean and pat dry the skin to be treated.

What are the possible side effects of Epiduo Gel?

Skin redness, dryness, peeling, mild burning, swelling, or worsening of acne may occur.