- Third-generation retinoid that binds to RAR receptor to modulate cellular differentiation, keratinization, and inflammation.
- Normalization of the differentiation of follicular epithelial cells, resulting in decreased microcomedone formation.
- Suppression of PMN chemotaxis.
- Inhibition of the lipo-oxygenase pathway and arachidonic acid metabolism, leading to decreased leukotriene and prostaglandin production.
- Downregulation of AP-1 transcription factor.
- Decreases expression of Toll-like receptor-2 (TLR-2) and decreases secretion of IL-10 cytokine along with increased expression of CD1d
Indications
- Acne Vulgaris .
- Actinic keratoses.
- Darier’s disease.
- Dowling-Degos disease.
- Melasma.
- Solar lentigines.
- Hyperpigmentation.
Dosage
- Adapalene is available as a 0.1% gel, cream, and solution and 0.3% gel for the treatment of acne.
- Adapalene may be applied Apply every night.
- Apply thin film to entire face and other affected areas of the skin qPM after washing gently with non medicated soap.
Side effects
- Erythema.
- Scaling.
- Dryness.
- Pruritus.
- Burning.
- Acne flaring at treated sites.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to drug/class.
- Pregnancy.
- Use of other topical products containing sulfur or alcohols, which can dry the skin.
Pregnancy &Lactation
- Pregnancy Category C.
- Topical adapalene has not been studied during breastfeeding.
Precautions
- It is recommended that patients exercise caution with respect to ultraviolet light exposure.
- Avoid eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
- For external use only.
- Adverse reaction risk higher during first month of treatment; generally subsides with use.
- Do not apply product to abrasions or cuts or to eczematous or sunburned skin.
- Skin irritation: Apply moisturizer, reduce application frequency, or discontinue.
- Do not wax treated area or apply topical products that may further irritate skin (eg, astringents, abrasive soaps and cleansers, exfoliants, sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid).
- Discontinue immediately and consult physician if any anaphylactoid/anaphylactic reactions occur.
Drug Info
- It is more stable chemically, less photolabile, and more lipophilic than other topical retenoids which enables it to penetrate follicles quickly.
- Pharmacokinetic studies have demonstrated that only trace amounts of adapalene are systemically absorbed and
are excreted through the hepatobiliary route. - There have been no reported carcinogenic, mutagenic, or genotoxic effects of topical adapalene in both in vivo and in vitro studies.
- Adapalene has also shown improvements in fine wrinkling and lentigenes in photodamaged skin.
- Acne exacerbation may occur in early weeks of treatment.