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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)

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Erythromycin

(Erygel)

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Summary for Epiduo

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.

Indications for Epiduo

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

Pros and Cons for Epiduo

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

Common Side Effects for Epiduo

Epiduo:

  • Dry skin (7%)
  • Rash (3%)

Epiduo Forte:

  • Skin irritation (4%)

Warnings for Epiduo

  • Sunburn
  • Skin irritation

Summary for Erygel

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 for Erygel

  • Acne

Pros and Cons for Erygel

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 for Erygel

  • Burning sensation (25%)
  • Skin peeling
  • Dry skin

Warnings for Erygel

  • Severe diarrhea
  • Drug-resistant bacteria

Prices with our coupons for Epiduo vs. Erygel

Price Card Drug Icon
Adapalene/Benzoyl Peroxide1 tube / 45g of 0.1%/2.5%
--
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Price Card Drug Icon
Erythromycin1 tube / 30g of 2%
$27.60$70.79
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