Differin (Adapalene)

General information

Differin belongs to a family of medications known as retinoids, meaning it is chemically related to vitamin A. It is used to treat common forms of acne. It works by reducing the number of acne-blocked oil glands (plugs or comedones) and preventing the formation of the plugs.

Directions

Take Differin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Apply a thin layer of Differin once a day before bedtime after washing the area with a gentle cleanser and drying gently with a towel. It should be applied to all the areas that are prone to acne; this may include the chest and back as well as the face. Do not apply adapalene to cuts, open wounds, sunburned areas, or areas of the skin with eczema.

Precautions

Before taking Differin you should talk with your doctor if you have eczema, sunburn, any allergies. Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not apply to areas near the eyes, lips, angles of the nose, mucous membranes, and open wounds. Avoid the use of certain cosmetics that might make your skin worse. It is not recommended in children under 12 years of age. The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for people over the age of 65.

Contraindications

Do not use Differin if you are allergic to adapalene or any other ingredients of the medication, if you have eczema or seborrheic dermatitis.

Possible side effect

Get emergency medical help if you have scaling, redness, dryness, persistent burning, persistent itching, hives, swelling of the mouth or throat, difficulty breathing, peeling, wheezing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor.

Drug interactions

There are no known interactions with other medications. However, Differin can irritate the skin, so other products such as harsh or abrasive cleansers, strong drying agents or other products that may be irritating should be avoided in the areas of the skin where adapalene is applied. Consult your doctor for more details.

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. Skip the missed dose if it is time for your next scheduled dose. Don't take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose

If you think you have overdosed the medicine seek emergency medical help at once. The overdose symptoms are redness, peeling, and discomfort.

Storage

Store the medicine at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store the drugs in the bathroom. Keep all drugs away from reach of children and pets.

Note

The information presented at the site has a general character. Note please this information cannot be used for self-treatment and self diagnosis. You should consult with your doctor or health care adviser regarding any specific instructions of your condition. The information is reliable, but we concede it could contain mistakes. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other damage caused by use of this information on the site and also for consequences of self-treatment.