ADAPALENE - TOPICAL

ADAPALENE - TOPICAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (a-DAP-a-leen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Differin

GENERIC NAME(S): adapalene

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat acne. It may decrease the number and severity of acne pimples and promote quick healing of pimples that do develop. Adapalene belongs to a class of medications called retinoids. It works by affecting the growth of cells and decreasing swelling and inflammation.


How to use ADAPALENE - TOPICAL

HOW TO USE: If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before using this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed. Wash your hands before applying this medication. Gently clean the affected skin with a mild or soapless cleanser and pat dry. Use your fingertips to apply a small amount of medication in a thin layer, usually once daily at bedtime, or as directed by your doctor. Use this medication on the skin only. Do not apply to the inner lip area or inside the nose/mouth. Do not apply to cut, scraped, sunburned, or skin affected by eczema (a skin disease). Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this medication gets into your eyes, flush with large amounts of water. Call your doctor if eye irritation develops. Wash your hands after using the medication to avoid accidentally getting it in your eyes. During the first few weeks of using adapalene, your acne might appear worse because the medication is working on pimples forming inside the skin. It may take up to 8-12 weeks to notice results from this medication. Use it regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Do not use a larger amount or use it more often than recommended. Your skin will not improve any faster, and it will increase the risk of developing redness, peeling and pain. This medication is available in different strengths and forms (such as gel, cream, lotion). The best type of medication for you to use will depend on the condition of your skin and your response to therapy. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: A brief sensation of warmth or stinging may occur right after applying the medication. Skin redness, dryness, itching, scaling, mild burning, or worsening of acne may occur during the first 2-4 weeks of using the medication. These effects usually decrease with continued use. If any of these effects lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Your doctor may want you to decrease how often you use adapalene, change the strength, or have you stop using it. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: very red/irritated skin, an intense burning sensation, eye redness and watering (conjunctivitis), eyelid swelling, skin discoloration. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using adapalene, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to vitamin A-related drugs (other retinoids such as isotretinoin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eczema. This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Weather extremes such as wind or cold may also be irritating to the skin. Use sunscreen daily and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness. Wait until your skin has completely recovered from a sunburn before using adapalene. Avoid electrolysis, waxing and chemical depilatories for hair removal on the treated areas while using this product. If you have recently used products containing sulfur, resorcinol or salicylic acid, use adapalene with caution. Wait until the effects of such products on the skin have decreased before using adapalene. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also Precautions section. Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this drug include: products containing alpha hydroxy acids, products containing glycolic acid, hair perming solutions, alcohol/lime/menthol-containing products (such as astringents, toners, shaving lotions), medicated or abrasive soaps and cleansers, soaps and cosmetics with a strong drying effect.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. This medication may be harmful if swallowed.

Images


color
white
shape
imprint

color
off-white
shape
imprint

Reviews

No Reviews Yet


Faq for ADAPALENE - TOPICAL

Adapalene is a topical medication used for the treatment of acne. It belongs to a class of drugs called retinoids and works by decreasing inflammation and preventing the formation of acne.

Adapalene should be applied to clean and dry skin. Use a pea-sized amount and gently massage it into the affected areas once daily, preferably in the evening.

Improvements in acne may be seen within 2 to 4 weeks of starting Adapalene treatment. However, significant results may take up to 3 months or longer. It is important to use Adapalene regularly as prescribed for optimal results.

Common side effects of Adapalene include dryness, redness, itching, and peeling of the skin. These side effects are usually mild and may improve over time. If severe or persistent, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

The safety of Adapalene during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been established. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using Adapalene in such cases.

Adapalene can be used in combination with other acne medications like benzoyl peroxide, but it is essential to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Some combinations may cause skin irritation, so it is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are using.

While Adapalene is primarily used for the treatment of acne, it may also be used for certain other skin conditions as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

The duration of Adapalene treatment varies depending on the severity of acne and individual response. It is generally recommended to continue using Adapalene until instructed otherwise by your healthcare professional.

It is possible that Adapalene may initially cause a temporary worsening of acne before improvement is seen. This is often referred to as a "purging" period and is a normal reaction. If the worsening persists or is severe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.