How to use

Generic Differin (Adapalene) is applied topically, once a day and usually in the evening. Wash your hands thoroughly before applying this medication, then cleanse the affected area with a mild or soapless cleanser. Pat the skin dry. Apply the gel in a thin layer with your fingertips, a gauze pad or cotton swab. Read the label thoroughly and follow the instructions of your doctor exactly.

Generic Differin (Adapalene) should only be used on the skin. Avoid getting any of this medication inside the nose or mouth or on the lips. Do not apply on open wounds, such as cuts or scrapes, or on skin affected by eczema. Make sure you do not get any of this medication in your eyes. If this does happen, wash your eyes out with large amounts of water immediately. Notify your doctor if your eyes get irritated. Always wash your hands thoroughly after applying the gel.

Overdose
Potential symptoms of a Generic Differin (Adapalene) overdose include:

• Irritation
• Scaling
• Redness

If you suspect you have taken too much of this medication, contact your local poison control center or the emergency medical services.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, you should apply it as soon as you remember.  If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, you should simply skip the missed dose and apply the medication at the next dosing time.  Do not attempt to make up for a missed dose by applying extra medication.

Notes
You may use cosmetics in conjunction with Generic Differin (Adapalene), but clean your skin thoroughly first. When buying soaps or cosmetics, check the label for non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic. These types of products are unlikely to make your acne worse.

Do not share this medication with others, since they may have a condition that is not effectively treated by Generic Differin (Adapalene).

Storage

Store Generic Differin (Adapalene) at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C ) and keep away from light and moisture. KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Important note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

Precautions
Before using Generic Differin (Adapalene), tell your doctor if you suffer from any of the following conditions:

• Any allergies
• Eczema

If you have any of the above, you may not be able to use this medication or you may need a dosage adjustment.

Generic Differin (Adapalene) can cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths and sunlamps while using this medication. If you do need to be out in the sun, make sure you are wearing an adequate sunscreen or protective clothing.

Generic Differin (Adapalene) is classed as Pregnancy Category C by the FDA, which means it is not known whether this medication will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication when pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment, without discussing it with your doctor first.

It is not known whether Generic Differin (Adapalene) passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before taking this medication, if you are currently breastfeeding a baby.

Drug Interactions
Before taking Generic Differin (Adapalene), tell your doctor if you are currently also using:

• Products containing alpha hydroxy acids
• Products containing glycolic acid
• Hair perming solutions
• Alcohol-, lime- or menthol-containing products (such as astringents, toners, shaving lotions)
• Medicated or abrasive soaps and cleansers
• Products containing sulfur
• Resorcinol
• Salicylic acid
• Soaps and cosmetics with a strong drying effect
• Other medication that may increase your sensitivity to sunlight (e.g. fluoroquinolones such as Ciprofloxacin, Tetracyclines, Thiazide water pills such as Hydrochlorothiazide, sulfa drugs such as Sulfamethoxazole, Phenothiazines such as Chlorpromazine)

This is only a partial list and other medication may interact with Generic Differin (Adapalene). Inform your doctor of all prescription and non-prescription medication your use, including vitamins, dietary supplements, herbal pills and medicines prescribed by other doctors. Do not start or stop taking any medication without discussing it with your doctor first.

The following common side effects of Generic Differin (Adapalene) may occur during the first 2-4 weeks of treatment:

• Warmth or stinging after application
• Redness
• Dryness
• Itching
• Scaling
• Mild burning
• Worsening of acne

These effects should decrease with time. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor immediately.

Inform your doctor immediately, if any of the following unlikely but serious side effects occur:

• Very red or irritated skin
• An intense burning sensation
• Eye redness and watering (conjunctivitis)
• Swelling of the eyelid
• Skin discolouration

In rare cases, you may experience a severe allergic reaction to Generic Differin (Adapalene). Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Rash
• Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

The above is only a partial list of potential side effects. Notify your doctor if you experience any other side effects than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.