Skip to main content
Print Save

Epiduo Forte Side Effects

Generic name: adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 22, 2022.

Note: This document contains side effect information about adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Epiduo Forte.

Summary

Common side effects of Epiduo Forte include: burning sensation of skin, desquamation, stinging of the skin, erythema of skin, and xeroderma. See below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects.

For the Consumer

Applies to adapalene/benzoyl peroxide topical: topical application gel/jelly

Side effects requiring immediate medical attention

Along with its needed effects, adapalene/benzoyl peroxide topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical:

More common

  • Dryness and peeling of the skin
  • flushing or redness of the skin
  • unusually warm skin

Less common

  • Blistering, burning, crusting, or flaking of the skin
  • burning, itching, redness, skin rash, swelling, or soreness at the application site
  • scaling, severe redness, or swelling of the skin

Incidence not known

  • Skin pain
  • sunburn

Side effects not requiring immediate medical attention

Some side effects of adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not known

  • Burning, dry, or itching eyes
  • change in the color of the treated skin
  • discharge or excessive tearing
  • redness, pain, or swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid
  • skin rash, encrusted, scaly, and oozing
  • swelling of the face

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical: topical gel

General

The most commonly reported side effects include irritative contact dermatitis, burning sensation, and dry skin.[Ref]

Dermatologic

Common (1% to 10%): Irritative contact dermatitis, dry skin/dryness, skin irritation, erythema, skin exfoliation/scaling

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Sunburn, pruritus, atopic dermatitis, eczema

Frequency not reported: Skin pain/stinging pain

Postmarketing reports: Allergic contract dermatitis, blisters/vesicles, skin discoloration, rash[Ref]

Local

Common (1% to 10%): Application site burning, application site irritation[Ref]

Nervous system

Common (1% to 10%): Burning sensation/skin burning sensation[Ref]

Ocular

Postmarketing reports: Eyelid edema, conjunctivitis[Ref]

Respiratory

Postmarketing reports: Throat tightness[Ref]

Other

Postmarketing reports: Swelling face[Ref]

References

1. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics." O 0

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information." O 0

3. "Product Information. Epiduo (adapalene-benzoyl peroxide topical)." Galderma Laboratories Inc (2009):

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer