Generic Differin, cream

Chemical Name: ADAPALENE

Common uses

This medicine is a retinoid-like compound used to treat acne. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may come with a patient information leaflet. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. Before applying this medicine, wash the affected area with a mild soap and gently dry. Apply a thin film of medicine to the affected and surrounding area. Rub in gently. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Cautions

Do not get this medicine in your eyes or on the inside of your nose or mouth. For the first 2 to 3 weeks of treatment, your skin condition may appear to worsen. This is expected. Do not stop using the medicine during this time. Do not use other medicines on your skin without first discussing it with your doctor. While you are using this medicine, you may use cosmetics. After using cosmetics, thoroughly wash and dry the affected area before applying this medicine. This medicine may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to this medicine. Use a sunscreen if you must be outside. Do not apply this medicine to sunburned skin.

For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include redness, itching, dryness, peeling, stinging, or a feeling of warmth. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience blistering, crusting, swelling, or excessive redness or peeling of your skin. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

Additional information

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.