Tetralysal 408mg Capsules & Epiduo Gel

Tetralysal 408mg Capsules & Epiduo Gel Combined Therapy

This combination offers an effective approach to treating acne. Tetralysal is an oral antibiotic that works systemically to reduce acne-causing bacteria, while Epiduo Gel contains Adapalene (a retinoid) and Benzoyl Peroxide, which help to promote skin cell turnover, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation. When used together, these medications provide a comprehensive solution for managing acne. Consistent use for at least 3 months is recommended for optimal results, although some individuals may see improvements earlier.

Understanding Acne

Acne is a common skin condition characterized by spots, oily skin, and sometimes, painful or warm sensations in the affected areas. Although most common in teenagers, acne can affect people of any age.

Essential Facts on Acne:

• Types of Spots: Acne can manifest in several forms, including:
  • Blackheads: Small, dark spots on the skin's surface.
  • Whiteheads: Firm, raised spots that can be difficult to extract.
  • Papules: Small, red, tender bumps.
  • Pustules: Red spots with pus-filled heads.
  • Nodules: Large, painful lumps deep beneath the skin.
  • Cysts: Large, pus-filled lumps that may lead to scarring.
• Causes: While the exact cause of acne isn't fully understood, factors such as hormonal changes, certain medications, and diet can contribute to its development. Hormonal fluctuations may cause excess oil production, which, when combined with dead skin cells, can block pores and trigger acne outbreaks.
• Who Gets Acne: Acne is most prevalent among teenagers and young adults due to hormonal changes during puberty, but adults, particularly women, can also experience acne.
• Identifying Acne: Frequent breakouts, especially 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 essential when selecting the right treatment. While over-the-counter (OTC) products may work for mild acne, more severe cases often require prescription medications. If you're uncertain about your acne type or if OTC treatments are ineffective, consider completing our Express Consultation Form. Our specialists can guide you toward the most suitable treatment for your condition.

The combination of Tetralysal 408mg capsules and Epiduo Gel provides a powerful dual approach to acne treatment:

Tetralysal 408mg Capsules:

Tetralysal contains the antibiotic Lymecycline, which is highly effective at targeting the bacteria that contribute to acne development, particularly Cutibacterium acnes. By inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, Tetralysal prevents the growth and spread of acne-causing bacteria, leading to a reduction in both inflamed and non-inflamed lesions on the skin.

Epiduo Gel:

Epiduo Gel combines two active ingredients: Adapalene, a retinoid that promotes faster skin cell turnover to unclog pores and prevent the formation of blackheads and whiteheads, and Benzoyl Peroxide, which reduces bacteria and inflammation on the skin. Together, Epiduo Gel and Tetralysal offer a comprehensive treatment for addressing both existing acne and preventing future breakouts.

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 cleansing 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 Tetralysal 408mg Capsules:

• Take the Tetralysal 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:

• After ensuring the skin is clean and dry, apply a small amount of Epiduo Gel to the affected areas.
• Gently massage the gel into the skin in circular motions until fully absorbed, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth.

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 Gel is meant for once-daily application, usually in the evening, while Tetralysal'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 Tetralysal and Epiduo Gel may occasionally result in issues such as skin dryness, peeling, or irritation, especially during the early stages of treatment. If these symptoms persist or worsen, stop using the products and contact your healthcare professional.

Sun Exposure:

Tetralysal may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Limit direct sun exposure while using this medication, and always apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when outdoors. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps.

Allergic Reactions:

Although rare, allergic reactions can occur. Signs such as severe redness, swelling, itching, or rashes should prompt you to discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention.

Eyes, Nose, and Mouth:

Take care to prevent Epiduo Gel from coming into contact with your eyes, nostrils, mouth, or other sensitive areas. In case of accidental contact, rinse thoroughly with water.

Concurrent Use of Other Products:

Avoid using other medicinal skin products at the same time, particularly those with peeling agents (e.g., salicylic acid), unless recommended by a healthcare professional.

Open Wounds:

Do not apply Epiduo Gel to sunburned, chapped, or wounded skin.

Oral Medication Interactions:

If you are taking other oral medications, especially other acne treatments, consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting Tetralysal or Epiduo to prevent potential interactions.

Alcohol-based Products:

Avoid using alcohol-based skincare products while using Epiduo, as it may increase 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 consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or notice unusual symptoms.
• Be aware that Tetralysal is associated with the potential for antibiotic-related diarrhea and colitis. If you experience these issues, stop taking the medication and seek medical advice immediately.
• Keep these products out of reach of children.
• Epiduo Gel is for external use, while Tetralysal is an oral medication. Always follow the prescribed method of application or ingestion. Exercise caution when using Epiduo, particularly around the eyes.
• If you suspect an allergic reaction to any ingredient in these products, stop using them. For any side effects, such as rashes or irritation, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Do not use Tetralysal 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: Tetralysal 408mg Caps and Epiduo Gel Combination Treatment

Tetralysal 408mg Caps:

Active Ingredient:

Lymecycline (equivalent to 408mg Tetralysal).

Inactive Ingredients:

Maize Starch, Magnesium Stearate, Gelatin, Titanium Dioxide (E171), and Indigotine (E132). The capsule shell also contains Iron Oxides (E172).

Epiduo Gel:

Active Ingredients:

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

Inactive Ingredients:

Docusate Sodium, Disodium Edetate, Glycerol, Poloxamer 124, Propylene Glycol, Simulgel 600PHA, and Purified Water.

Note:

It is recommended to perform a patch test before introducing a new product into your routine to check for potential allergic reactions or sensitivities. If any irritation or adverse reactions occur, stop use immediately and consult a healthcare professional for advice.

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 important to seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor without delay. This summary may not cover all possible side effects, so it's always recommended to consult the patient information leaflet for a comprehensive list.

When using Tetralysal 408mg caps in combination with Epiduo Gel, side effects may result from either medication or both. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and in many instances, they are temporary and will subside on their own. Below are the potential side effects for each medication:

Tetralysal 408mg Caps:

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

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Abdominal pain

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

• Headache
• Rash
• Vomiting

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

• Increased pressure in the brain (causing headaches, nausea, or blurred vision)
• Liver issues
• Yeast infections (thrush)

Epiduo Gel:

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

• Dryness or peeling of the skin
• Redness at the application site
• Burning or stinging sensation

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

• Itching
• Skin irritation
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight

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

• Severe skin reactions or blistering
• Skin discoloration
• Allergic contact dermatitis

If any side effects become severe or if they persist and cause discomfort, consider discontinuing the product and promptly seek 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