ADAPALENEProduct code SKU16169

Brand Name(s) : Differin


ADAPALENE USES

What is it used for?

Adapalene is used to reduce inflammation in acne.
It is a retinoid-like drug.
It is used to reduce soreness and irritation in acne .
In general this drug is used on the face, chest or back for acne, where the skin may have lots of blackheads, spots and pimples.
Benefits of being on this drug can include relief of acne.
Listed below are the typical uses of adapalene.

mild to moderate acne where there are lots of blackheads, spots and pimples. It can be applied to the face, chest or back.
On occasion your doctor may prescribe this medicine to treat a condition not on the above list. Such conditions are listed below.

None known.


HOW TO USE/TAKE

How often do I take it?

Apply this medication to clean skin usually once a day, at night before going to bed.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it.
Remember to use it at the same time each day - unless specifically told not to by your doctor.
There is no information on how long this drug takes to reach its full effect.
Certain medical conditions may require different dosage instructions as directed by your doctor.

What dose?

Dosage is based on your age, gender, medical condition, response to therapy, and use of certain interacting medicines.

Do I need to avoid anything?

You do not need to avoid anything while using adapalene; cosmetics may be used but they must not cause blackheads or dry the skin. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

When can I stop?

After you have used adapalene for 3 months, it is important that you see your doctor. He or she can then check the improvement of your acne.

Details

ADAPALENE INTERACTIONS

Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.

This drug should not be used with the following medications because very serious, possibly fatal interactions may occur: none known.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and non-prescription/herbal products you may use, especially of:

Other acne products (containing benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin or clindamycin) may be used with adapalene but they must be applied in the morning and adapalene at night.
peeling agents,
abrasive cleansers,
strong drying agents,
astringents,
irritant products (aromatic and alcoholic agents).
This information does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using adapalene, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use.


ADAPALENE SIDE EFFECTS

slight stinging or burning sensation when applying the gel,
red, itchy, dry or peeling skin.
eye irritation and swelling,
blistering or crusting of the skin.
If any of these persist or you consider them severe then inform your doctor or pharmacist.

Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms:

no specific major side effects known, see also symptoms of a serious allergic reaction below.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the UK you may report side-effects to the MHRA


ADAPALENE OVERDOSE

Applying too much adapalene may cause the following: red, irritated skin with some peeling or discomfort.

People who have accidentally swallowed any of this product, should seek medical advice.

If you think you, or someone you care for, might have accidentally taken more than the recommended dose of adapalene or intentional overdose is suspected, contact your local hospital, GP or if in the UK call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

MISSED DOSE

Do not worry if you forget to apply your adapalene at the right time. When you remember, start using the product again, in the same way as before.


ADAPALENE PRECAUTIONS

Before taking adapalene, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other retinoid-like drugs; or if you have any other allergies.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist in case of:

Allergies to adapalene, or any of the other ingredients .
Before using this medication tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially any of the following:

cuts or scrapes,
sunburnt skin,
a skin condition called eczema,
severe acne involving large areas of the body,
not for use in children,
avoid contact with the eyes, mouth or nostrils, and other very sensitive areas of your body,
exposure to strong sunlight and artificial UV light,
if you are a woman capable of having children you must use effective contraception whilst using adapalene.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication.

Does alcohol intake affect this drug?

Alcohol intake is not known to affect adapalene.
The elderly: adapalene can be used in the elderly.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding - please ensure you read the detailed information below

PREGNANCY

The safety of adapalene has not been established during pregnancy. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any doubts or questions about this.

It is sensible to limit use of medication during pregnancy whenever possible. However, your doctor may decide that the benefits outweigh the risks in individual circumstances and after a careful assessment of your specific health situation.

If you have any doubts or concerns you are advised to discuss the medicine with your doctor or pharmacist.

BREAST FEEDING

It is not known whether adapalene passes into breast-milk. The manufacturer therefore states that it should not be taken if you are breastfeeding, unless your doctor has told you that you must.
Do not apply adapalene onto your chest, if you are breast feeding. Do not let your baby come into contact with any other areas of your body which have been treated with this gel.

It is sensible to limit use of medication during breastfeeding whenever possible. However, your doctor may decide that the benefits outweigh the risks in individual circumstances and after a careful assessment of your specific health situation.

If you have any doubts or concerns you are advised to discuss the medicine with your doctor or pharmacist.


ADAPALENE WARNINGS

Adapalene should be used with caution in:

cuts or scrapes,
sunburnt skin,
a skin condition called eczema,
severe acne involving large areas of the body,
not for use in children,
avoid contact with the eyes, mouth or nostrils, and other very sensitive areas of your body,
exposure to strong sunlight and artificial UV light,
if you are a woman capable of having children you must use effective contraception whilst using adapalene.
It should not be used in:

Allergies to adapalene, or any of the other ingredients.
Also see list of precautions and interactions

STORAGE

Do not store above 25°C.