
Twyneo
Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) is a prescription medication used to treat acne in adults and children 9 years and older. It’s the first FDA-approved treatment to safely combine two common acne-fighting ingredients: tretinoin (a retinoid) and benzoyl peroxide (an antiseptic). The medication comes as a cream that you apply once a day to the affected areas. Common side effects include redness, peeling, and dry skin.
What is Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide)?
What is Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) used for?
How Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) works
Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) is a combination of two medications, but the exact way it works isn't fully known.
- Tretinoin is a retinoid. It’s believed to help by making skin cells stick together, so they’re less likely to clog. It also helps your skin shed old cells faster, which can clear out clogged pores more quickly.
- Benzoyl peroxide is a topical antiseptic. It likely works by killing acne-causing bacteria and helping remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Twyneo |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Retinoid / antiseptic |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
Side effects of Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Stinging, burning, or pain (11%)
- Dryness (5%)
- Peeling (4%)
- Redness (4%)
Less Common Side Effects
- Skin irritation
- Itching
- Flaking
- Changes in skin color
Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious allergic reaction: hives, rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, dizziness, lightheaded
The following Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
- Sensitivity to light
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Change in skin color
- Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
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Pros and cons of Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide)
Pros
- Combines two medications into one product for convenience
- Can be used by adults and children ages 9 and up
- Only needs to be applied once a day
Cons
- For some people, acne improvement can take weeks to months
- Can bleach hair and fabrics
- Might cause your skin to become more sensitive to the sun
Pharmacist tips for Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide)
- When using Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) for the first time, apply a small amount to one area of your skin to see if you develop any discomfort or allergic reaction. If you notice severe irritation, stop using it and contact your dermatologist.
- Apply Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) to clean, dry skin. Make sure to avoid your eyes, lips, mouth, and the corners of your nose.
- Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) might cause redness, dryness, stinging, or burning that's usually temporary. But if they worsen or don't go away, let your dermatologist know. You might also want to use a gentle moisturizer to help reduce irritation.
- Try to limit sun exposure while using Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide). The medication can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing if you're going to be outside.
- Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) might cause serious allergic reactions. If you experience swelling, trouble breathing, or a severe rash, stop using it right away. Get medical help immediately if these symptoms appear.
- Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) can bleach hair and fabrics. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the cream to remove any leftover product. This helps lower the risk of accidentally getting the medication on your hair, clothes, towels, or bed sheets.
- Store Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) at room temperature in its original container. Throw it away either 60 days after opening it or 12 weeks after picking it up from the pharmacy — whichever comes first.
How to use Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide):
- Press down on the pump to put a small amount of cream on your finger.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected areas once a day.
- Wash your hands right away after applying the cream.
- Press down on the pump to put a small amount of cream on your finger.
Risks and warnings for Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide)
Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Serious allergic reactions
Before using Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide), tell your dermatologist if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to tretinoin or benzoyl peroxide. While rare, allergic reactions to this medication can happen. Signs of a serious allergic reaction include hives, rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, or dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms while using Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide), stop using it and contact your dermatologist right away.
Skin Irritation
- Risk factors: Applying Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) to skin that’s cut, scraped, sunburned, or has eczema
Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) can cause stinging, burning, dryness, and redness where you apply it. These side effects are usually worse during the first few weeks but often get better as your skin adjusts. Using a hydrating moisturizer can help reduce this irritation. Avoid applying Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) on skin that’s cut, scraped, sunburned, or affected by eczema, as this can make irritation worse. If your side effects are severe, your dermatologist might recommend using the cream less often — or stopping it altogether.
Sun sensitivity
- Risk factors: Using tanning beds and UV treatments
Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, including tanning beds and UV treatments. Try to stay out of direct sunlight while using it, and if you need to be outside, wear sunscreen and loose-fitting clothes to protect your skin. Stop using Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) if you notice any signs of sunburn, and let your dermatologist know.
Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) dosage
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30g of 0.1%/3% | 1 pump | $478.56 | $478.56 |
Typical dosage for Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide)
Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected areas of the face once a day.
How much does Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) cost?
$478.56
Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) contraindications
Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide) will not be safe for you to take.
- Severe allergic reaction to tretinoin or benzoyl peroxide
What are alternatives to Twyneo (tretinoin / benzoyl peroxide)?
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