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Compare Epiduo vs. Erygel

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Epiduo (adapalene/benzoyl peroxide) and Erygel (erythromycin) are both topical prescription medications used to treat acne, but they work in different ways. Epiduo combines a retinoid (adapalene) and an antibiotic (benzoyl peroxide) to stop pimples from forming and reduce redness and inflammation, while Erygel is a macrolide antibiotic that prevents further growth of acne-causing bacteria. Epiduo is applied once a day, whereas Erygel can be applied once or twice a day. Epiduo can cause dry skin and make you more sensitive to the sun, while Erygel can cause burning, peeling, and dryness, and may lead to bacterial resistance if overused. Epiduo is not recommended during pregnancy, but Erygel is considered safe for use during pregnancy. Additionally, Epiduo can bleach clothing and bed sheets, unlike Erygel.

  • Epiduo (adapalene / benzoyl peroxide)
    Erythromycin (Erygel)
  • Epiduo (adapalene / benzoyl peroxide)
    Erythromycin (Erygel)

  • Summary of Epiduo vs. Erygel

    Summary for Retinoid / Topical antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Epiduo (adapalene / benzoyl peroxide) is a topical gel that contains two active ingredients: adapalene (a retinoid) and benzoyl peroxide (an antiseptic). It's FDA approved to treat acne (pimples) in adults and children. The gel is typically applied to the skin once a day. Side effects aren't common, but can include dry skin, skin irritation, and skin burning. The medication is available as a generic and under two brand names: Epiduo and Epiduo Forte.

    Summary for Macrolide antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Erythromycin (Erygel) is an effective topical antibiotic medication used to treat acne. Similar to other topical acne medications, it can cause peeling, burning, and dryness of the skin. It can take up to 8 weeks to see any improvements in your acne.

  • Indications of Epiduo vs. Erygel

    Indications for
    •Acne in
    •People 9 years and older - Epiduo
    •People 12 years and older - Epiduo Forte
    Indications for
    •Acne

  • Pros and Cons of Epiduo vs. Erygel

    Pros and Const for Retinoid / Topical antibiotic
    Pros
    •Combination of two medications in a single product
    •Only needs to be applied once a day
    •Easy to apply
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Can make your skin more sensitive to the sunlight
    •Can bleach clothing and bed sheets
    •Can make skin dry or irritated
    •Your skin might look worse before it starts looking better
    Pros and Const for Macrolide antibiotic
    Pros
    •A good option when over-the-counter acne treatments aren't working
    •Helpful if you have oily skin
    •Safe to use during pregnancy
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic medication
    Cons
    •Can take 6 to 8 weeks to start working
    •Can cause skin irritation, burning, and peeling
    •Can be harsh if you typically have dry skin
    •Known to cause bacterial resistance (bacteria that are difficult to kill with antibiotics)

  • Common Side Effects of Epiduo vs. Erygel

    Common Side Effects for

    Epiduo:

    •Dry skin (7%)
    •Rash (3%)

    Epiduo Forte:

    •Skin irritation (4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Burning sensation (25%)
    •Skin peeling
    •Dry skin

  • Warnings of Epiduo vs. Erygel

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sunburn
    •Skin irritation
    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe diarrhea
    •Drug-resistant bacteria

  • Prices with our coupons for Epiduo vs. Erygel

    Learn more about Epiduo
    Learn more about Erythromycin

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