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Co-cyprindiol and Epiduo gel acne treatment
  • Combination of oral contraceptive and branded gel
  • Helps treat causes and symptoms of hormonal acne
  • Suitable for women only

Co-cyprindiol and Epiduo gel

Hormonal acne can often be effectively treated in women by taking the contraceptive pill Co-cyprindiol (widely known as Dianette or Clairette) and applying the topical Epiduo gel.

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Co-cyprindiol and Epiduo gel acne treatment
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*Our clinicians will prescribe the most suitable acne treatment for you

Request acne treatment*

*Our clinicians will prescribe the most suitable acne treatment for you

  • Combination of oral contraceptive and branded gel
  • Helps treat causes and symptoms of hormonal acne
  • Suitable for women only

Generic or branded treatments?

Some treatments contain the same active ingredient but are sold under different names. If the active ingredient and the dosage are the same, the treatments will have the same effect and work in the same way. 

Generic Branded
Same active ingredient
Works in the same way
Often less expensive

What are Co-cyprindiol and Epiduo gel?

  • How do I apply Epiduo gel and take Co-cyprindiol?

    Before going to bed apply a thin layer of Epiduo gel to clean, dry skin.  Wash your hands thoroughly after using the cream as it will bleach fabrics and hair and can cause irritation to the eyes.

    You should take Co-cyprindiol for 21 days, starting on the first day of your period, and then have 7 days off. If you take it in this fashion and take it at roughly the same time everyday it will act as a contraceptive.

  • How does the combination of Co-cyprindiol and Epiduo gel work?

    Epiduo gel contains both Adapalene and Benzoyl Peroxide and works to disrupt the skin processes that cause acne, kill bacteria that helps acne form and peel the outer layer of skin. 

    Co-cyprindiol (sometimes branded as Dianette or Clairette) will tackle acne by blocking the hormones that cause it. 

  • Will Co-cyprindiol and Epiduo gel be an effective treatment?

    This combination of treatments will be most effective for women who experience pustules (small sore red spots with white tips). Combining Epiduo gel with Co-cyprindiol contraceptive pill should help both the cause of acne and its appearance. 

  • Are there any side effects to Co-cyprindiol and Epiduo gel?

    When taking Co-cyprindiol, like with a lot of medications, some women may experience side effects. Side effects may come in the form of nausea, breast tenderness, changing moods and headaches. 

    Epiduo gel makes the affected area more sensitive to sunshine, so it is important to make sure appropriate sun protection is worn. Some people may also experience peeling skin, redness, dryness and a mild burning sensation.

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

  • Is it safe to use these medications during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

    Neither Co-cyprindiol or Epiduo gel should be used while pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Will there be any interactions with other medications?

    Epiduo gel should not be used at the same time as other products or medications that contain Benzoyl Peroxide and/or retinoids.

    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.

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