Indications
- Medication treats acne.
- Reduces number and severity of pimples.
- Promotes quick healing of pimples.
- Belongs to retinoids class.
- Affects cell growth.
- Decreases swelling and inflammation.
Dosage and administration
- Follow package directions or doctor’s instructions.
- Use once daily at bedtime.
- Clean affected skin before use.
- Apply a small amount in a thin layer.
- Wash hands before and after applying.
- Avoid eyes, lips, and sensitive areas.
- Flush eyes with water if contacted.
- Avoid use on cut, scraped, or sunburned skin.
- Initial worsening of acne may occur.
- Results may take 8 to 12 weeks.
- Use regularly for best results.
- Don’t exceed prescribed amount or frequency.
- Different strengths/forms available.
- Consult doctor if no improvement or worsening.
- Pregnant women should avoid handling.
Side effects
- Sensation of warmth or stinging may occur.
- Redness, dryness, itching, scaling, or mild burning possible in first 2-4 weeks.
- Effects usually decrease with continued use.
- Inform doctor if effects persist or worsen.
- Doctor may adjust usage frequency, strength, or discontinue use.
- Doctor weighs benefits against risks.
- Serious side effects rare.
- Inform doctor of serious side effects like intense burning, eye irritation, or skin discoloration.
- Seek immediate medical help for signs of allergic reaction.
- Not a complete list of possible side effects.
Precautions
- Inform doctor/pharmacist of allergies, especially to vitamin A-related drugs.
- Discuss medical history, particularly eczema, with doctor/pharmacist.
- Medication may increase sun sensitivity; limit sun exposure.
- Avoid tanning booths, sunlamps, and extreme weather conditions.
- Use sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors.
- Report sunburn or skin irritation promptly.
- Wait until skin recovers from sunburn before using adapalene.
- Avoid electrolysis, waxing, and chemical depilatories on treated areas.
- Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should not handle medication.
- Inform doctor if pregnant or planning pregnancy; weigh risks and benefits.
- Consult doctor before breastfeeding, as drug effects on breast milk are unknown.