Drug Name

Differin (Adapalene)

Drug Uses

This medicine is a retinoid-like compound, taken to treat acne. It might and be taken to treat other conditions as determined by your physician.

How Taken

This medicine might come with a patient information leaflet. Ask your physician, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you might 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 Type 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 short. 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 natural dosing schedule.

Storage

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

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 might appear to worsen. This is future. Do not stop taking the medicine during this time. Do not use other medicines on your skin without first discussing it with your physician. While you are taking this medicine, you might use cosmetics. After taking cosmetics, thoroughly wash and dry the affected area before applying this medicine. This medicine might 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 physician the benefits and risks of taking 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 taking this medicine, check with your physician or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects, that might go away during treatment, include redness, itching, dryness, peeling, stinging, or a feeling of warmth. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your physician. Check with your physician 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 physician, nurse, or pharmacist.

More Information

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