Adapalene
Adapalene is a topical retinoid medication used to treat acne vulgaris. It works by normalizing skin cell differentiation and reducing inflammation to prevent clogged pores. This medication is typically prescribed for mild to moderate acne and is available in gel, cream, and solution formulations.
Adapalene is a topical retinoid used to treat acne by modulating skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D10AD03
- RxNorm
- 60223
- Generic
- Adapalene
- Class
- atc-d10
- Brands
- Differin, Cabtreo, Differin Epiduo, Epiduo
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- gel, cream, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- Apply thin layer once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily (evening)
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- Apply thin layer once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily (evening)
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- Apply thin layer once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily (evening)
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits significantly outweigh risks. Topical application limits systemic exposure but risk cannot be ruled out.
regular prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
continue avoidance unless clearly needed for severe acne
standard prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid if possible
discontinue use near term or as directed by physician
standard prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid on breast area
do not apply to breast or nipple area. If treatment needed, use on non-breast areas and ensure thorough washing before breastfeeding.
monitor infant for skin irritation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
under 12 yearsnot recommended
safety and efficacy not established in children under 12 years. Consult pediatric dermatologist.
close pediatric supervision
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
12 years and olderno adjustment needed
approved for use in patients 12 years and older for acne vulgaris. Follow standard dosing instructions.
standard dermatological follow-up
geriatric
elderlyno adjustment needed
no specific dosage adjustment required for elderly patients. Use standard dosing. May have increased skin dryness or sensitivity.
monitor for skin irritation and dryness
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no dosage adjustment required. Topical application results in minimal systemic absorption.
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no dosage adjustment required due to minimal systemic absorption after topical use.
standard monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
First FDA approval
FDA approval year for Adapalene
Drug class
Therapeutic classification of Adapalene
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indication
Available formulations
Dosage forms available
Treatment of acne vulgaris (mild to moderate), including comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads) and inflammatory acne lesions.
Adapalene is a third-generation retinoid that binds to specific retinoic acid nuclear receptors. It modulates cellular differentiation, normalizes keratinization, and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties to prevent pore clogging and reduce acne lesions.
Apply once daily (usually at night) to clean, dry skin. May cause initial dryness, irritation, and increased sun sensitivity. Results typically appear after 8-12 weeks of consistent use. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Pregnant women should consult their physician before use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy