FDA OKs New Acne Gel Epiduo

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Once-Daily Epiduo Combines Benzoyl Peroxide and a Retinoid

By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Health News

Reviewed By Louise Chang, MD

Jan. 6, 2009 -- The FDA has approved a new prescription acne gel called Epiduo for use in patients 12 and older.

Epiduo, which is used once daily, combines two long-time acne treatments: benzoyl peroxide 2.5% and adapalene 0.1%. Adapalene is a retinoid sold generically and by the brand name Differin.

Galderma, the company that makes Epiduo, states in a news release that Epiduo is the "first and only" combination acne gel of its kind. Epiduo will be available in the first quarter of 2009, according to a Galderma news release.

Galderma announced Epiduo's approval today; FDA records show that the approval went through on Dec. 8, 2008.

SOURCES: FDA: "Label and Approval History: Epiduo." FDA: "Highlights of Prescribing Information." News release, Galderma.

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