Brand
name: Differin Gel (Adapalene)
Pronounced: Ada-Fer-in
Generic name: Adapalene
Why is Differin Gel (Adapalene) prescribed?
Differin Gel (Adapalene) is prescribed for the treatment of acne.
Most important fact about Differin Gel (Adapalene)
Differin Gel (Adapalene) makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. While using this
product, keep your exposure to the sun at a minimum, and protect yourself
with sunscreen and clothing. Never apply Differin Gel (Adapalene) to sunburned skin.
How should you use Differin Gel (Adapalene) without
a prescriptions?
Differin Gel (Adapalene) should be applied once a day at bedtime. Wash the affected
areas, then apply a thin layer of the gel. Avoid eyes, lips, mouth,
and nostrils. If you are using a single-use pledget, remove it from
the foil just before using, and discard it after applying Differin Gel (Adapalene).
Do not use if the seal is broken.
Use Differin Gel (Adapalene) exactly as prescribed. Applying excessive amounts or
using the gel more than once a day will not produce better results
and may cause severe redness, peeling, and discomfort.
If you miss a dose Differin Gel (Adapalene)
Don't try to make it up. Simply return to your regular schedule on
the following day.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Differin Gel (Adapalene) side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue using Differin Gel (Adapalene).
Side effects are most likely to occur during the first 2 to 4 weeks
and usually diminish with continued treatment. If side effects are
severe, your doctor may advise you to reduce the frequency of use or
discontinue the drug entirely. Side effects disappear when the drug
is stopped.
* Side effects may include...
Acne flare-ups, burning, dryness, irritation, itching, redness, scaling, stinging,
sunburn
Why should Differin Gel (Adapalene) not be prescribed?
Do not use Differin Gel (Adapalene) if you are sensitive to adapalene or any other
components of the gel.
Special warnings about Differin Gel (Adapalene)
If you have an allergic reaction or severe irritation, stop using
Differin Gel (Adapalene) and call your doctor.Remember that Differin
Gel (Adapalene) increases sensitivity to sunlight. Take measures to
protect yourself from overexposure. Wind and cold weather may also
be irritating.
Do not apply Differin Gel (Adapalene) to cuts, abrasions, eczema, or sunburned skin.
In the first few weeks of treatment, your acne may actually seem to
get worse. This just means Differin Gel (Adapalene) is working on hidden acne sores.
Continue using the product. It can take as much as 8 to 12 weeks before
you start to see improvement in your condition.
Differin Gel (Adapalene) has not been tested for children under 12 years old.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Differin Gel (Adapalene)
Avoid using Differin Gel (Adapalene) with any other product that can irritate the
skin, such as medicated soaps and cleansers, soaps and cosmetics that
have a strong drying effect, and products with high concentrations
of alcohol, astringents, spices, and lime.
Special caution is necessary if you have used, or are currently using,
any skin product containing sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid.
Do not use such a product with Differin Gel (Adapalene). If you have used one of these
products recently, do not begin Differin Gel (Adapalene) treatment until the effects
of the other product have subsided.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Differin Gel (Adapalene) during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not
been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant,
notify your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Differin Gel (Adapalene) appears
in breast milk. If you are nursing and need to use Differin Gel (Adapalene), your doctor
may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding while using Differin Gel (Adapalene).
Recommended dosage for Differin Gel (Adapalene)
The usual dose is a thin film applied over the acne-affected area
just before bedtime.
Overdosage
