Doxycycline 100mg Capsules & Epiduo Gel

Doxycycline 100mg Caps & Epiduo Gel (0.1% or 0.3%) Combined Therapy

This combination provides a robust approach to acne treatment. Doxycycline is an antibiotic that works systemically to reduce acne-causing bacteria, while Epiduo Gel combines Adapalene (a retinoid) with Benzoyl Peroxide to promote skin cell turnover and reduce inflammation. Used together, these medications offer a comprehensive solution for managing acne. For optimal results, consistent use for a minimum of 3 months is recommended, although some individuals may see improvements earlier.

Understanding Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that presents as spots, oily skin, and sometimes, painful or warm sensations when touched. While it mostly affects teenagers, acne can occur at any age.

Essential Facts on Acne:

• Types of Spots: Acne can appear in various forms, including:
  • Blackheads: Small, dark spots on the skin's surface.
  • Whiteheads: Firm spots that are difficult to empty.
  • Papules: Small, tender red bumps.
  • Pustules: Red spots with pus at the top.
  • Nodules: Large, painful lumps beneath the skin.
  • Cysts: Large, pus-filled lumps that may cause scarring.
• Causes: The exact cause of acne is uncertain, but contributing factors include hormonal changes, certain medications, and diet. Hormonal shifts may stimulate excess oil production from sebaceous glands, which, when combined with dead skin cells, can block pores and cause acne.
• Who Gets Acne: While acne is most common in teenagers and young adults due to puberty-related hormonal changes, many adults—especially women—experience acne as well.
• Identifying Acne: Frequent breakouts, particularly around the 'T-zone' (forehead, nose, chin), or oily skin with various types of spots may indicate acne.

Choosing the Right Acne Treatment:

Understanding the severity and type of your acne is key to selecting the right treatment. Over-the-counter (OTC) products may work for mild acne, but more severe cases might require prescription medications. If you're unsure about your acne type or if OTC treatments are ineffective, consider filling out our Express Consultation Form. Our experts can guide you in choosing the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

The combination of Doxycycline 100mg caps and Epiduo Gel (0.1% or 0.3%) offers a powerful dual approach to acne treatment:

Doxycycline 100mg Caps:

Doxycycline is an antibiotic that is highly effective against bacteria that contribute to the development of acne, particularly Propionibacterium acnes. It inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, preventing their growth and spread. This results in a significant reduction of the bacteria responsible for acne, leading to fewer inflamed and non-inflamed lesions.

Epiduo Gel (0.1% or 0.3%):

Epiduo Gel combines two active ingredients: Adapalene (a retinoid) and Benzoyl Peroxide. Adapalene enhances skin cell turnover, helping to unclog pores and reduce the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. Benzoyl Peroxide works by reducing bacteria and inflammation on the skin. Together, these ingredients provide a comprehensive treatment that not only prevents new breakouts but also addresses existing acne lesions.

Always read the provided patient information leaflet prior to consuming or applying any medication, and follow the instructions offered by your healthcare specialist. Here's a basic guideline for utilizing this combination treatment:

Set-up:

• Begin with clean hands. Wash them thoroughly with soap and water.
• Cleanse the area affected by acne with a mild, non-medicated cleanser. If you use a cleaning agent, ensure it doesn't contain alcohol or other potential skin irritants.
• Pat your skin dry using a soft towel. Avoid rubbing vigorously.

Procedure for Doxycycline 100mg caps:

• Consume the Doxycycline capsule with a full glass of water.
• Avoid lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking the capsule to prevent irritation in your throat.
• Always follow your physician's advice regarding the dosage and timing.

Procedure for Epiduo Gel (0.1% or 0.3%):

• After ensuring the skin is clean and dry, dispense a small pea-sized amount of Epiduo onto your fingertip.
• Gently apply a thin layer over the affected areas in the evening, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Let the gel air-dry naturally on the skin.

Aftercare:

• Avoid washing the treated skin immediately after application. Ideally, keep the medication on the skin for several hours or as recommended by your healthcare provider.
• If you experience skin dryness or irritation, consider using a non-comedogenic moisturizer suitable for acne-prone skin.
• If heading outdoors, protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, as acne treatments can increase sun sensitivity.

Usage Frequency:

Typically, Epiduo is meant for once-a-day application, preferably in the evening, while Doxycycline's frequency will be as prescribed by your doctor. Ensure you follow the given guidelines for both.

Guiding Notes:

• When starting new acne treatments, it's essential to introduce them slowly to monitor any skin reactions.
• If any unusual symptoms such as increased irritation or redness arise, stop usage and consult your healthcare professional.
• Avoid using other medicinal skin products unless approved by your doctor.
• Patience is key. Seeing results with acne treatments can take several weeks. It's crucial to follow your healthcare expert's advice and consistently check-in regarding your progress and any concerns.

Skin Sensitivity:

Utilizing Doxycycline and Epiduo may at times result in issues such as skin dryness, peeling, or irritation, particularly at the outset of the treatment. If these issues remain or become more pronounced, stop using the products and reach out to your healthcare professional.

Sun Exposure:

Doxycycline might increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun. Limit direct sun exposure when on this medication, and ensure you wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 during outdoor activities. Refrain from using tanning booths and sunlamps.

Allergic Reactions:

Although rare, allergic reactions can occur. Signs including severe redness, swelling, itching, or rashes should prompt discontinuation of use and immediate medical attention.

Eyes, Nose, and Mouth:

Be careful to prevent Epiduo gel from coming into contact with your eyes, nostrils, mouth, or other sensitive areas. If accidental contact happens, rinse thoroughly with water.

Concurrent Use of Other Products:

Steer clear of using other medicinal skin products simultaneously, especially those with peeling agents (like salicylic acid) unless recommended by a healthcare professional.

Open Wounds:

Avoid using Epiduo on sunburned, chapped, or wounded skin.

Oral Medication Interactions:

If you're taking other oral medicines, especially other acne treatments, discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before starting Doxycycline or Epiduo to prevent possible negative interactions.

Alcohol-based Products:

Avoid using products containing alcohol on your skin concurrently with Epiduo as it might intensify skin dryness and irritation.

Storage:

Store these products at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.

Points to Remember:

• Always read the patient information leaflet provided with each product and communicate with your healthcare provider if you have concerns or notice unusual symptoms.
• Be aware that antibiotic-associated diarrhea and colitis have been associated with Doxycycline. If you experience these issues, stop taking the medication and seek medical advice immediately.
• Keep the product out of sight and reach of children.
• While Epiduo is for external use, Doxycycline is an oral medication. Always follow the prescribed method of application or ingestion. Exercise caution with Epiduo, especially around the eyes.
• If you notice or suspect an allergic reaction to any ingredient in these products, stop usage. For any observed side effects, like rashes or irritations, discontinue and consult a healthcare professional.

Do not use Doxycycline or Epiduo during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to potential risks. There are alternatives that are safer and more effective for these particular scenarios. For detailed advice on managing acne during pregnancy, please see our Acne guide.

Ingredients: Doxycycline 100mg Caps and Epiduo Gel (0.1% or 0.3%) Combination Treatment

Doxycycline 100mg Caps:

Active Ingredient:

Doxycycline hyclate (equivalent to 100mg doxycycline).

Inactive Ingredients:

Sucrose, Maize Starch, Crospovidone, Polymethacrylate and Talc. The Capsule Shell Contains Gelatin and the Colourings E171, E132, And E172. The White Printing Contains Shellac, Propylene Glycol, Ammonium Hydroxide, Potassium Hydroxide, and The Colour E171.

Epiduo Gel 0.1%/0.3%:

Active Ingredients:

Adapalene (0.1% or 0.3%) and Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5%).

Inactive Ingredients:

Docusate sodium, Disodium Edetate, Glycerol, Poloxamer 124, Propylene Glycol (E1520), Simulgel 600PHA, Purified Water.

Note:

It's advisable to conduct a patch test when incorporating a new product into your routine to detect any allergic reactions or sensitivities. If any irritation or adverse reactions occur, stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

Potential Side Effects

All treatments have the potential for side effects. If you experience severe side effects, or if mild side effects persist, it's crucial to seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor without delay. This overview might not encompass all potential side effects, so it's always recommended to consult the patient information leaflet for an exhaustive list.

When using Doxycycline 100mg caps in conjunction with Epiduo Gel (0.1% or 0.3%), side effects may emerge from either medication or a combination of both. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and often, they are temporary and will subside on their own. Here are the potential side effects for each medication:

Doxycycline 100mg Caps:

Common Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

• Nausea
• Headache
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Upset stomach

Uncommon Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Vomiting
• Rash
• Dizziness

Rare Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):

• Yeast infections
• Increased pressure in the skull

Epiduo Gel 0.1% or 0.3%:

Common Side Effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):

• Skin redness
• Skin dryness
• Sensations of burning or stinging
• Peeling or scaling of the skin

Uncommon Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Itchy skin
• Local skin rash

Rare Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):

• Sunburn
• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Swelling of the face

If any side effects become severe or if they persist and cause discomfort, consider discontinuing the product and promptly seeking medical advice.

Choosing the Right Acne Treatment

If you need a diagnosis, you can use our Express Consultation Form

Understanding that the cause and severity of acne varies among individuals is essential. Hence, the optimal treatment might differ for each person. Below is a list of alternative treatments:

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Options:

• Salicylic Acid Products: Useful for unclogging pores. Available as cleansers, toners, and spot treatments.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: A popular ingredient in many OTC acne products. It helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and can mitigate inflammation.
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids: Effective in removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores.
• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser: A formula that's friendly to all skin types, helping eliminate excess oil without causing dryness.
• Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion: Offers hydration suitable for all skin types.
• Aveeno Cream and Lotion: Enriched with colloidal oatmeal, renowned for its calming properties.

Prescription Products:

• Differin 0.1% Gel and Cream: Contains adapalene, a kind of retinoid, known for its pore-unclogging and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Duac Gel (3% & 5%): Features benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin, an antibiotic effective in curbing bacteria growth.
• Skinoren 20% Cream: Packed with azelaic acid, which showcases anti-inflammatory and comedolytic properties.
• Oral Antibiotics: Examples include Doxycycline, Oxytetracycline, and Minocycline. They work by reducing bacteria and inflammation.
• Oral Contraceptives: Like Dianette and Eloine, they can manage hormones that trigger acne in females.
• Spironolactone: Originally designed for high blood pressure treatment, but it can also address acne in women by counteracting the effects of androgens on the skin.

Combination Treatments:

• Dalacin-T Lotion / Acnecide 5% gel Combination Treatment
• Zindaclin 1% gel / Differin 0.1% cream/gel Combination Treatment
• Doxycycline 100mg caps /Differin 0.1% cream/gel Combination Treatment