Adapalene Topical Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 31, 2023.

Usual Adult Dose for Acne

Usual dose: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day at bedtime

Comments:

• The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application.
• Patients may experience a transient warming sensation after application of the cream formulation.
• An apparent exacerbation of acne may occur during the first weeks of treatment, and should not be a reason to discontinue treatment.

Use: Topical treatment of acne vulgaris

Usual Pediatric Dose for Acne

12 years and older:

• Usual dose: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day at bedtime

Comments:

• The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application.
• Patients may experience a transient warming or stinging sensation after application of the cream formulation.
• An apparent exacerbation of acne may occur during the first weeks of treatment, and should not be a reason to discontinue treatment.

Use: Topical treatment of acne vulgaris

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Dose Adjustments

Severe warmth or stinging on application: Use may be temporarily stopped or the frequency of application decreased until the patient is able to tolerate treatment.

Sunburned skin or skin treated with irritating topical products (e.g., sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid): Treatment with this drug should be avoided until the skin heals.

Precautions

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 12 years.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:

• This drug is for topical use only, and should be used with caution around mucous membranes and disrupted skin (e.g., abrasions, cuts, eczema, sunburns).
• Containers should be kept tightly closed when not in use.
• Non-comedogenic and non-astringent cosmetics may be used during treatment.
• Moisturizers may be used during treatment, but patients should avoid those containing alpha hydroxy or glycolic acids.
• Lotion formulations: A small amount (approximately 3 to 4 actuations of the pump) should be applied to the affected area.
• Swab formulations: The swab should be removed from its foil pouch just prior to application. Once used, the swab should be properly discarded.

Storage requirements:

• The manufacturer product information should be consulted.

General:

• Excessive application may increase the risk of skin irritation without improving efficacy.
• Safety and efficacy of use in the treatment of severe pustular, deep cystic, or acne conglobulata have not been established. This drug should not be used to treat severe acne.

Monitoring:

• Excessive skin irritation
• Sunburns/increased photosensitivity

Patient advice:

• Patients should be counseled on using appropriate sun protection while on therapy.
• Patients should be instructed to wash the affected area with a mild, non-medicated soap and pat the area dry before application. Patients should be told to avoid washing the area too frequently or scrubbing the skin too hard.
• Patients should be warned that benefits may not be seen for up to 12 weeks; initially, acne may look worse, but patients should not discontinue use during this time.
• Patients should be told to avoid contact with extremes in weather, other topical drugs, agents with strong drying effects, preparations with high alcohol concentrations, abrasive soaps, astringents, spices, and/or lime or lime peels to decrease the risk of skin irritation.
• Patients should be advised to speak to their healthcare provider if they are pregnant, intend to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer