Drugs >  Adapalene
Adapalene
Pronunciation
Brand Names
Therapeutic Categories
Reasons not to take this medicine
What is this medicine used for?
How does it work?
How is it best taken?
What do I do if I miss a dose?
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
What are the common side effects of this medicine?
What should I monitor?
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
How should I store this medicine?
General statements

Pronunciation
(a DAP a leen)

Brand Names
Differin®

Therapeutic Categories
Acne Products

Reasons not to take this medicine

  • If you have an allergy to adapalene or any other part of the medicine.


What is this medicine used for?

  • This medicine is used to treat acne. It may take 2-3 months to see the full benefit.


How does it work?

  • Adapalene decreases gland size in the skin.
  • It also affects cell growth and reproduction.


How is it best taken?

  • Do not take by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
  • Wash your hands before and after use.
  • Clean affected area before use.
  • Use a small amount over the area affected as a light film. Rub in gently.
  • Do not put coverings (bandages, dressings, make-up) over the area unless told to do so by healthcare provider.
  • Use entire prescription as directed, even if feeling better.


What do I do if I miss a dose?

  • Apply a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not apply a double dose or extra doses.


What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

  • You can get sunburned more easily. Avoid lots of sun. Use sunscreen; wear protective clothing and eyewear.
  • Skin may look worse before it looks better.
  • Use of certain soaps, sulfur, resorcinol, benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid-containing skin preparation can increase irritation.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.


What are the common side effects of this medicine?

  • Redness, peeling, and irritation where this medicine is applied.
  • Warm feeling and stinging after applying this medicine.


What should I monitor?

  • Monitor for redness and peeling.
  • Follow up with healthcare provider


Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe redness, burning, or peeling.
  • Any rash.


How should I store this medicine?

  • Store at room temperature.


General statements

  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, herbal/supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter or natural products (herbs, vitamins).


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