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Differin Gel .1

What is acne?

Acne (acne vulgaris, common acne) is a disease of the hair follicles of the face, chest, and back that affects almost all males and females during puberty; the only exception being teenage members of a few primitive isolated tribes living in Neolithic societies. It is not caused by bacteria, although bacteria play a role in its development. It is not unusual for some women to develop acne in their mid- to late-20s.

Acne appears on the skin as...

  • congested pores ("comedones"), also known as blackheads or whiteheads,
  • tender red bumps also known as pimples or zits,
  • pustules, and occasionally as
  • cysts (deep pimples, boils).

You can do a lot to treat your acne using products available at a drugstore or cosmetic counter that do not require a prescription. However, for tougher cases of acne, you should consult a physician for treatment options.

What...

Differin Gel .1%

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DIFFERIN®
(adapalene) Gel, 0.1%

DRUG DESCRIPTION

DIFFERIN® Gel, containing adapalene, is used for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris. Each gram of DIFFERIN® Gel contains adapalene 0.1% (1 mg) in a vehicle consisting of carbomer 940, edetate disodium, methylparaben, poloxamer 182, propylene glycol, purified water and sodium hydroxide. May contain hydrochloric acid to adjust pH.

The chemical name of adapalene is 6-[3-(1-adamantyl)-4-methoxyphenyl]-2-naphthoic acid. Adapalene is a white to off-white powder which is soluble in tetrahydrofuran, sparingly soluble in ethanol, and practically insoluble in water. The molecular formula is C28H28O3 and molecular weight is 412.52. Adapalene is represented by the following structural formula:

What are the precautions when taking adapalene gel (Differin Gel .1%)?

Before using adapalene, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eczema.

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Weather extremes such as wind or cold may also be irritating to the skin. Use a sunscreen daily and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Wait until your skin has completely recovered from a sunburn before using adapalene.

Avoid electrolysis, waxing and chemical depilatories for hair...

Read All Potential Precautions of Differin Gel .1% »

Last reviewed on RxList: 9/19/2007
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.

Differin Gel .1% - User Reviews

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