Co-cyprindiol and Benzoyl Peroxide gel

How do I apply Benzoyl Peroxide gel and take Co-cyprindiol?

Benzoyl Peroxide gel (generic Acnecide) should be applied once or twice daily to a dry, freshly washed skin. If you have sensitive skin, it is probably best to apply it only once a day.

Co-cyprindiol (sometimes known as Dianette or Clairette) should be taken at the same time for 21 days, starting on the first day of your period, and then should be followed by a 7-day break. Taken in this manner it will also act as contraception.

How does this combo acne treatment work?

Benzoyl Peroxide gel reduces the production of oil that often clogs up pores and causes acne. It also breaks down blackheads, whiteheads and kills the bacteria that cause acne.

Co-cyprindiol is a combined oral contraceptive and contains the Cyproterone with Ethinylestradiol which blocks the hormones that cause acne.

Are these acne treatments effective?

It can be up to 4 weeks before you start to see the impact of the treatment, but Co-cyprindiol is likely to work for those women who experience hormonal acne. Both treatments work best for those who experience papules and pustules, both are sore red spots, with pustules also having white tips filled with pus.

As Benzoyl Peroxide gel can dry out the affected area, if you have sensitive skin you may want to reduce the amount of times you use the topical solution each week. 

Are there side effects to either Benzoyl Peroxide or Co-cyprindiol?

Benzoyl Peroxide gel can cause peeling of the affected area, redness, irritation and dryness. The medication will also increase sensitivity to sunlight and sunbeds, so you will have to use an appropriate SPF. It is also worth noting that Benzoyl Peroxide gel bleaches towels and bed linen and can do the same to hair.

Co-cyprindiol like most contraceptive pills can cause breast tenderness, an increase in weight, headaches, mood changes and nausea.

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the Benzoyl Peroxide and Co-cyprindiol patient information leaflets.

Is it safe to use these treatments during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Neither Benzoyl Peroxide gel or Co-cyprindiol should be used when pregnant or breastfeeding.

Will these medications interact with other medications?

Medications that contain tretinoin, isotretinoin or tazarotene should not be used at the same time as Benzoyl Peroxide gel as this will increase irritation and decrease effectiveness. It is also worth avoiding cosmetics or toiletries that contain high concentrations of alcohol.

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 for 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.