Accutane vs. Epiduo
- Are Accutane and Epiduo the Same Thing?
- What Are Possible Side Effects of Accutane?
- What Are Possible Side Effects of Epiduo?
- What is Accutane?
- What is Epiduo?
- What Drugs Interact with Accutane?
- What Drugs Interact with Epiduo?
- How Should Accutane Be Taken?
- How Should Epiduo Be Taken?
Are Accutane and Epiduo the Same Thing?
Accutane (isotretinoin) and Epiduo (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide) are used for the treatment and prevention of severe acne.
Accutane is a form of vitamin A called a retinoid, and Epiduo is a combination of a retinoid and an antibacterial medication that also has a mild drying effect.
What Are Possible Side Effects of Accutane?
Common side effects of Accutane include:
- dry skin,
- itching,
- rash,
- dry nose,
- nosebleeds,
- cracks in the corners of the mouth,
- dry mouth,
- dry lips,
- cracking or peeling skin,
- inflammation of the whites of the eyes,
- dry eyes,
- joint pain,
- back pain,
- dizziness,
- drowsiness,
- nervousness, or
- changes in your fingernails or toenails.
What Are Possible Side Effects of Epiduo?
Common side effects of Epiduo include:
- skin redness,
- dryness,
- peeling,
- mild burning,
- stinging,
- scaling,
- swelling,
- itching, or
- worsening of acne during the first 4 weeks of using this product.
These side effects usually decrease with continued use of Epiduo Gel. A very serious allergic reaction to Epiduo is rare. Seek immediate medical attention if you have serious symptoms, including:
- rash, itching or swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat),
- severe dizziness, or
- trouble breathing.
What is Accutane?
Accutane (isotretinoin) is a retinoid used for the treatment and prevention of severe acne. The brand name Accutane is discontinued in the U.S., but generic formulations are available.
What is Epiduo?
Epiduo (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide) Gel is a combination of a medication similar to vitamin A and an antibacterial medication that also has a mild drying effect used to treat acne in people who are at least 12 years old.
What Drugs Interact With Accutane?
Accutane may interact with steroids, seizure medications, or tetracycline antibiotics
What Drugs Interact With Epiduo?
Epiduo may interact with other medicated skin products
How Should Accutane Be Taken?
The recommended dose of Accutane is 0.5 to 2 mg per kg of body weight daily.
How Should Epiduo Be Taken?
Epiduo is for topical (for the skin) use only. Apply a thin film of Epiduo gel to affected areas once daily after washing. Use a pea-sized dose amount for each area of the face (e.g., forehead, chin, each cheek). Avoid the eyes, lips and mucous membranes.