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Topical retinoid (anti-acne)

Adapalene 0.1% Topical

Brand names: Differin (0.1% cream/gel), Epiduo (adapalene 0.1% + benzoyl peroxide 2.5% — combination)

Adapalene 0.1% topical is a third-generation synthetic retinoid gel or cream used for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris, particularly comedonal disease.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It binds retinoic acid receptors in keratinocytes to normalise follicular keratinisation and reduce comedone formation, with an additional anti-inflammatory effect.

Prescribing in practice

  • Avoid in pregnancy and advise effective contraception, as topical retinoids are contraindicated in women planning or able to become pregnant.
  • Local irritation, erythema, dryness and peeling are common early in treatment and usually settle with continued, less frequent application.
  • Apply a thin film to clean, dry skin at night and expect several weeks before visible benefit.

Monitoring

No routine laboratory monitoring is required; review tolerability and treatment response clinically.

Counselling the patient

  • Use a thin layer once daily at night and a non-comedogenic moisturiser to limit dryness.
  • Skin may become more sensitive to sunlight, so use sun protection and avoid sunlamps.
  • Acne may appear worse initially before improving over several weeks.

Evidence & guidelines

Topical retinoids are recommended by NICE as a core option in the management of acne vulgaris.

Reference: BAD Acne Guidelines 2021; NICE CG184; Epiduo SPC; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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