Adapalene
From PharmDatabase.org
Generic name: Adapalene
Brand names: Differin
Related Medical Conditions: Acne
Related Groups: Skin Care
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What is Adapalene?
Adapalene is a compound similar to vitamin A. It helps the skin to renew itself more quickly and therefore reduces pimple and blackhead formation. Adapalene is used to treat acne.
Adapalene Usage and Dosage
Adapalene comes as a gel, a solution (liquid), and a cream to apply to the skin. The solution comes in a glass bottle with an applicator and as individual pledgets (medicated wipes for one time use). It is usually applied once a day at bedtime. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Apply adapalene exactly as directed. Do not apply more or less of it or apply it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Applying more adapalene or applying adaplene more often than recommended will not speed up or improve results, but it may irritate your skin.
Adapalene controls acne but does not cure it. Your acne may get worse during the first few weeks of treatment, and it may take 8–12 weeks or longer before you feel the full benefit of adapalene. Pimples can take 6–8 weeks to form under the skin, and during the first weeks of your treatment, adapalene may bring these pimples to the skin surface. Continue to use adapalene even if your acne worsens or you do not see much improvement at first. Do not stop using adapalene without talking to your doctor.
Do not apply adapalene to skin that is sunburned, broken, or covered with eczema (a skin disease). If you have any of these conditions, do not apply adapalene until your skin has healed.
Be careful not to get adapalene in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you do get adapalene in your eyes, wash them with plenty of water and call your doctor. Your eyes may become irritated, swollen, or infected.
To use the cream, gel, or solution, follow these steps:
Gently wash the affected skin with a mild soap or soapless cleanser and pat dry with a soft towel. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleansers, and do not scrub your skin vigorously. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend a gentle cleanser. If you are using the gel or cream, use your fingers to spread a thin film of medication over the affected area. If you are using a pledget, remove it from the foil pouch and gently wipe the entire affected area. If you are using the glass bottle of solution, apply a thin layer to the affected area using the applicator provided. You may feel a slight warmth or stinging in the place where you applied adapalene. This feeling is normal and should go away by itself in a short time. If you used a pledget, throw it away after use. Do not save it to use again.
Adapalene Side Effects
Serious side effects are not likely to occur. Stop using adapalene topical and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).
You may experience some burning, warmth, stinging, tingling, itching, redness, dryness, peeling, or irritation while you are using adapalene topical. If these side effects are excessive, ask your doctor about using adapalene every other day or only several days a week. These side effects should decrease after the first few weeks of treatment.
If you notice a change in your skin color, contact your doctor.
Other Drugs Interaction
Do not use other topical prescription or over-the-counter preparations unless directed to do so by your doctor. They may interfere with your treatment or increase irritation to your skin. Avoid using harsh, abrasive, or irritating cleansers, perfumes, or cosmetics on the area you are treating. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with adapalene topical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
Adapalene Storage
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). If you are using a bottle of adapalene solution, be sure to store it upright. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
