Epiduo Forte Gel (Adapalene Benzoyl Peroxide)

Do’s

• Wash your hands thoroughly before applying Epiduo Forte.
• Cleanse the affected area with a mild cleanser and pat dry completely.
• Apply a thin layer (pea-sized amount) to the affected areas once daily, as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Use only on your skin; avoid inner lips, nose/mouth, mucous membranes, broken, sunburned, or eczematous skin.
• Avoid contact with eyes. Rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs. Wash hands afterward to prevent transfer to eyes.
• Use consistently at the same time each day.

Don'ts

• Don't apply more medication or use it more often than prescribed.
• Don't get Epiduo Forte in your eyes.
• Don't use it on broken, sunburned, or eczematous skin.
• Don't apply to inner lips, nose/mouth, or mucous membranes.
• Don't expect immediate results; it may take a few weeks for improvement.
• Don't stop using Epiduo Forte without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't pregnant women or those who may become pregnant should not handle this medication.

Common Side Effects:

• Dry skin
• Rash
• Eczema (a condition that causes cracked, itchy, and red, darker brown, purple, or gray patches of skin)
• Skin discoloration
• Burning or stinging at the application site
• Skin redness
• Irritation
• Itching

Serious Side Effects:

Serious side effects from Epiduo Forte are not common, but they can occur. Seek medical attention if serious side effects are experienced. These may include:

• Severe redness or swelling of treated skin
• Severe burning or stinging
• Severe dryness or other skin irritation
• Serious allergic reaction, although rare, may include symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Epiduo forte gel,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have allergies to adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, vitamin A-related drugs (retinoids), or any other ingredients in Epiduo Forte gel.

Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before using Epiduo Forte gel, especially if you have other skin conditions like eczema.

Epiduo Forte gel can bleach hair and colored fabrics. Be cautious when applying near the hairline, dressing, and choosing linens (if left on overnight).

Epiduo Forte gel increases sun sensitivity. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing. Inform your healthcare provider about sunburn or skin irritation. Wait for complete recovery from sunburn before using the gel again.

Avoid electrolysis, waxing, and chemical hair removal on treated areas while using Epiduo Forte gel.

Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not use Epiduo Forte gel. Adapalene may harm an unborn baby. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is unknown if Epiduo Forte gel passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Epiduo Forte gel may interact with other medications. Provide your healthcare provider with a list of all medications you take to avoid potential interactions. Never adjust medication dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.