Brand name:
Differin
Pronounced: DIFF-er-in
Generic name:
Adapalene
Why is Differin prescribed?
Differin is prescribed for the treatment of acne.
Most important fact about Differin
Differin makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. While using
this product, keep your exposure to the sun at a minimum, and
protect yourself with sunscreen and clothing. Never apply Differin
to sunburned skin.
How should you use Differin?
Differin should be applied once a day at bedtime. Wash the
affected areas, then apply a thin layer of the gel. Avoid eyes,
lips, mouth, and nostrils. If you are using a single-use pledget,
remove it from the foil just before using, and discard it after
applying Differin. Do not use if the seal is broken.
Use Differin exactly as prescribed. Applying excessive amounts or
using the gel more than once a day will not produce better results
and may cause severe redness, peeling, and discomfort.
--If you miss a dose...
Don't try to make it up. Simply return to your regular schedule
on the following day.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Differin side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Differin.
Side effects are most likely to occur during the first 2 to 4
weeks and usually diminish with continued treatment. If side effects
are severe, your doctor may advise you to reduce the frequency of
use or discontinue the drug entirely. Side effects disappear when
the drug is stopped.
- Side effects may include...
Acne flare-ups,
burning,
dryness,
irritation,
itching,
redness,
scaling,
stinging,
sunburn
Why should Differin not be prescribed?
Do not use Differin if you are sensitive to adapalene or any
other components of the gel.
Special warnings about Differin
If you have an allergic reaction or severe irritation, stop using
Differin and call your doctor.
Remember that Differin increases sensitivity to sunlight. Take
measures to protect yourself from overexposure. Wind and cold
weather may also be irritating.
Do not apply Differin to cuts, abrasions, eczema, or sunburned
skin.
In the first few weeks of treatment, your acne may actually seem
to get worse. This just means Differin is working on hidden
acne sores. Continue using the product. It can take as much as 8 to
12 weeks before you start to see improvement in your condition.
Differin has not been tested for children under 12 years old.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Differin
Avoid using Differin with any other product that can irritate the
skin, such as medicated soaps and cleansers, soaps and cosmetics
that have a strong drying effect, and products with high
concentrations of alcohol, astringents, spices, and lime.
Special caution is necessary if you have used, or are currently
using, any skin product containing sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic
acid. Do not use such a product with Differin. If you have used one
of these products recently, do not begin Differin treatment until
the effects of the other product have subsided.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Differin during pregnancy and breastfeeding have
not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. It is not known whether
Differin appears in breast milk. If you are nursing and need to use
Differin, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding
while using Differin.
Recommended dosage for Differin
The usual dose is a thin film applied over the acne-affected area
just before bedtime.
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences.
Overuse of Differin can cause redness, peeling, and discomfort. If
you suspect an overdose, check with your doctor immediately.
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