adapalene 0.1%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel (Epiduo®)

following a resubmission:

adapalene 0.1%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel (Epiduo®) is accepted for restricted use within NHS Scotland.

Indication under review: cutaneous treatment of acne vulgaris when comedones, papules and pustules are present.

SMC restriction: the treatment of mild to moderate facial acne when monotherapy with benzoyl peroxide or adapalene is not considered appropriate.

In 12-week studies, adapalene 0.1%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel was as effective as an alternative combination antibiotic treatment in reducing inflammatory lesions.  However adapalene 0.1%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel was less well tolerated in terms of local reactions.

This SMC advice takes account of the benefits of a Patient Access Scheme (PAS) that improves the cost-effectiveness of adapalene 0.1%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel. This SMC advice is contingent upon the continuing availability of the patient access scheme in NHS Scotland or a list price that is equivalent or lower.