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DERMATOLOGICALS › ANTI-ACNE PREPARATIONS › ANTI-ACNE PREPARATIONS FOR TOPICAL USE › Retinoids for topical use in acne
adapalene, combinations
D10AD53
Forms & Strengths
- Adapalene 0.1% / Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% topical gel
- Adapalene 0.3% / Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% topical gel
- Topical cream and pad combinations varying by regional availability
Adult Dosing
- Apply a thin film to clean and dry affected areas once daily in the evening
- Avoid eyes, lips, mucous membranes, and eczematous or broken skin
- Use a pea-sized amount for the entire face
Pediatric Dosing
- Children < 9 years: Safety and efficacy not established
- Children >= 9 years to 17 years: Apply once daily in the evening to affected areas, same as adult dosing
Indications
- Topical treatment of acne vulgaris (inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions)
Mechanism of Action
- Adapalene: Synthetic retinoid that modulates cellular differentiation, keratinization, and inflammatory processes
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Antimicrobial agent with keratolytic and peeling actions, highly effective against Cutibacterium acnes
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, or any formulation excipients
- Pregnancy (due to systemic absorption risks associated with topical retinoids, though low)
Adverse Reactions
- Erythema, scaling, dryness, and stinging/burning at the application site
- Pruritus and skin irritation
- Sunburn / increased susceptibility to ultraviolet light
Drug Interactions
- Concurrent use of other potentially irritating topical products (medicated soaps, cleansers, cosmetics with strong drying effects)
- Topical products containing sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid (use with caution due to cumulative irritant effect)
- Photosensitizing medications (thiazides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, phenothiazines) which may increase risk of phototoxicity
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use