Drug Name

Differin (Adapalene)

Drug Uses

This medicine is a retinoid-like compound, used to treat acne. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How Taken

This medicine may come with a patient information leaflet. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. Before applying differin, wash the affected area with a mild soap and gently dry. Apply a thin film of medicine to the affected and surrounding area. Rub in gently.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Adapalene is main ingridient of Differin. Adapalene in small concentrations is a moderator of cellular differentiation, keratinization, and inflammatory processes. The exact mode of action of adapalene is unknown. Adapalene is applied topically to the skin, and its absorption into the blood through this medium is very low. Only trace amounts of adapalene have been found in the plasma of chronically treated patients.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage

Store differin at room temperature, away from heat and light.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not get this medicine in your eyes or on the inside of your nose or mouth. For the first 2 to 3 weeks of treatment, your skin condition may appear to worsen. This is expected. Do not stop using the medicine during this time. Do not use other medicines on your skin without first discussing it with your doctor. While you are using this medicine, you may use cosmetics. After using cosmetics, thoroughly wash and dry the affected area before applying this medicine. This medicine may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to this medicine. Use a sunscreen if you must be outside. Do not apply this medicine to sunburned skin. For women: If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include redness, itching, dryness, peeling, stinging, or a feeling of warmth. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience blistering, crusting, swelling, or excessive redness or peeling of your skin. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

More Information

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.