Adapalene

Adapalene treats acne. Can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and may cause you to sunburn more easily. Avoid sunlight. If you are going to be outside, wear sunscreen and protective clothing.

Adapalene Overview

Reviewed: October 10, 2013
Updated: 

Adapalene is a prescription medication used to treat acne. Adapalene, a form of vitamin A, is thought to work by reducing inflammation and slowing the growth of keratin surface skin cells. This helps to unblock pores and decreases the formation of blackheads and pimples.

This medication comes in the form of a cream, a gel, and a lotion to be applied to the affected skin. It is usually applied once daily, at nighttime, after gently washing with a mild cleanser.

Common side effects include skin irritation, redness, peeling, and dryness.

How was your experience with Adapalene?

First, a little about yourself

Tell us about yourself in a few words?

What tips would you provide a friend before taking Adapalene?

What are you taking Adapalene for?

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  • Other
  • Acne Vulgaris

How long have you been taking it?

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  • Less than a week
  • A couple weeks
  • A month or so
  • A few months
  • A year or so
  • Two years or more

How well did Adapalene work for you?

Did you experience many side effects while taking this drug?

How likely would you be to recommend Adapalene to a friend?

Uses of Adapalene

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Adapalene is a prescription medication used to treat acne.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Adapalene Brand Names

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Adapalene may be found in some form under the following brand names:

Adapalene Drug Class

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Adapalene is part of the drug class:

Side Effects of Adapalene

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Serious side effects have been reported. See "Drug Precautions" section.

Common side effects include:

  • redness
  • scaling or peeling
  • dryness
  • persistent itching
  • persistent burning or stinging

This is not a complete list of adapalene side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.