Treatments over the Easter break

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    Co-cyprindiol and Azelaic Acid gel

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    How do I apply Azelaic Acid gel and take Co-cyprindiol?

    Co-cyprindiol (widely known as Dianette or Clairette) is a combined oral contraceptive pill and should therefore be taken on the first day of your period. It is to be taken at the same time for 21 days consecutively and followed by a seven-day break. Taken in this manner it will also act as contraception 

    Azelaic Acid (generic Finacea) acne gel should be applied twice daily, ideally in the morning and then again in the evening. It should be applied after washing the skin with a mild cleanser.

    How does this acne treatment work?

    Azelaic Acid gel reduces the amount of sebum (oil) produced by the skin, which in turn leads to fewer acne causing bacteria, as the sebum is their food source, and fewer blocked pores. Co-cyprindiol is a contraceptive pill which helps to block hormones that cause acne. 

    The combination of these two medications works to both tackle acne that has formed and prevent further formation.

    Is this combination acne treatment effective?

    Azelaic Acid gel is most effective when treating acne that is characterised by papules (small red bumps) and pustules (white-tipped spots), and for those with sensitive skin. Co-cyprindiol is effective for women who experience hormonal acne, as it blocks the hormones that are most associated with causing acne flare ups.

    It is important to use both treatments optimally if you are to see the effect of the acne treatments.

    Are there any side effects to Co-cyprindiol or Azelaic Acid gel?

    Co-cyprindiol, like a lot of medication, may cause side effects in some people taking it. Women may experience changes in mood, an increase in body weight, headaches and nausea. Some people applying Azelaic Acid gel may experience redness, dry skin and irritation.
    For full information on side effects and correct use, see the Co-cyprindiol and Azelaic Acid gel patient information leaflets.

    Is it safe to apply Azelaic Acid gel during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

    Co-cyprindiol cannot be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding. Azelaic Acid gel cannot be used when pregnant either, however it can be used while breastfeeding provided it is not applied to the chest.

    Will this acne treatment interact with other medications?

    While using Azelaic Acid gel to treat your acne you should avoid using other topical creams or gels on the affected area.

    Other medications may interfere with the effectiveness of Co-cyprindiol and its ability to protect against pregnancy. You should tell us about any other medications you are taking to ensure we prescribe safely the most suitable acne treatment.

    Alternative treatments to acne

    Instead of the contraceptive pill Co-cyprindiol, you could be prescribed oral antibiotics to treat your acne alongside a topical gel or cream. Topical medications could also be prescribed alone.

    Reordering treatment

    We will contact you through your Patient Record 6 weeks from your order to see how you are getting on with the medication. We may ask for some photos at this time as well to assess the response to treatment. It will also be an opportunity for you to give us feedback on your acne. To reorder your treatment, go to your Patient Record and select ‘reorder’. You will be required to fill in the online questionnaire each time you reorder.

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    How our service works

    1. Complete our simple, confidential online consultation

      5 mins

    2. One of our clinicians confirms your suitability and notifies you by email

      About 30 mins (Mon-Sun 9am-5pm)

    3. Choose delivery or collection

      Next day delivery

      Collect in your local ParcelShop​​​​​​​

    What our patients say

    Meet our clinical team

    Based in our London office, our doctors and independent pharmacists have years of experience caring for patients in NHS hospitals, GP surgeries or in community pharmacies. Any one of the team may provide you with advice, your prescription or aftercare via private message.

    Meet the whole team
    • Dr Kieran Seyan  - Meet the clinical team at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor

      Dr Kieran Seyan

      GMC: 6104204

    • Dr Gigi Taguri  - Meet the clinical team at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor

      Dr Gigi Taguri

      GMC: 6129350

    • Dr Mitra Dutt- Meet the clinical team at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor

      Dr Mitra Dutt

      GMC: 6077868

    • Dr Neel Patel

      Dr Neel Patel

      GMC: 7085151

    Meet the whole team

    Delivery & collection information

    • Standard delivery

      Free

      Delivered within 2-3 working days.

    • Next-day delivery

      £4.95

      Orders approved before 5pm Monday-Friday will arrive within 1-2 working days. Orders approved between 5pm Friday and 12pm Sunday will usually arrive on Monday or Tuesday.

    • Standard ParcelShop collection

      Free

      Collect from 7000+ convenient ParcelShops in 2-3 working days.

    • Next day ParcelShop collection

      £2.95

      Collect next day from 7000+ convenient ParcelShop locations, if approved before 5pm Monday-Friday. Saturday and Sunday orders, collect Monday if approved before 12pm Sunday or Tuesday if ordered after 12pm. 

    • London same-day collection

      Free

      Order before 5pm Monday-Friday to collect in pharmacy the same day. Subject to the availability of your treatment in your selected London pharmacy.

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