✅ Active Ingredient Overview Table:

🔬 Active Ingredient (Generic Name):	Adapalene
💊 Indication:	Acne Vulgaris (Comedonal & Inflammatory Lesions)
🇺🇸 US Brand:	Differin
🏭 Manufacturer:	Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (Founded: 1984)
📦 Packaging:	15 g Tube
🧪 Strength:	0.1% w/w
🚚 Delivery Time:	6–15 days

🌿 What is Adapalene 0.1% Gel (Adapen)?

Adapen Gel delivers 0.1% adapalene, a third-generation topical retinoid that modulates cellular differentiation and keratinization. By binding to retinoic acid receptors in follicles, adapalene normalizes desquamation and prevents microcomedone formation, the earliest acne precursor. This mechanism, combined with anti-inflammatory effects, addresses both comedonal and inflammatory acne, improving skin texture and reducing lesion counts over 8–12 weeks.

Acne patients often struggle with persistent blackheads and inflamed papules, which can lead to scarring and decreased self-esteem. Adapen’s non-irritating formulation ensures better tolerability, making it suitable for long-term maintenance therapy. Clinical studies show up to a 65% reduction in lesion count at 12 weeks with once-daily evening application.

🧬 Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action

Attribute	Detail
Chemical Formula	C30H28O3
Molecular Weight	432.54 g/mol
Bioavailability	Negligible systemic absorption
Metabolism	Minimal hepatic; primarily local action
Half-Life	N/A (local receptor binding)

Adapalene selectively binds to RAR-β and RAR-γ, modulating gene expression to normalize follicular epithelium and inhibit inflammation.

💡 Indications & Application

Condition	Application
Acne Vulgaris (Mild to Moderate)	Apply a thin layer to affected areas once daily in the evening after cleansing. Continue for at least 12 weeks.

Avoid eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. Use sunscreen during therapy due to increased photosensitivity.

⚠️ Warnings & Side Effects

Common:

Dryness, erythema, peeling
Burning or stinging sensation

Serious (rare):

Severe contact dermatitis
Sunburn risk due to photosensitivity

Advise use of non-comedogenic moisturizer and daily SPF 30+ sunscreen. If irritation persists, reduce frequency to every other night.

🏥 Storage Instructions

Store Adapen Gel at 20–25°C. Protect from light and high humidity. Keep tube tightly closed and out of reach of children.

🌐 Availability & Purchasing

USA: OTC (Differin 0.1%); generic adapalene available.
UK & EU: Prescription required; often reimbursed for acne treatment.
Australia: OTC for adults; prescription for minors.

Intas’ Adapen Gel provides an affordable alternative. Ensure adherence to local regulations.

🔗 Related Topical Acne Therapies

Clindac A Gel (Clindamycin 1%) – antibiotic for inflammatory lesions.
Benzac AC 5% – benzoyl peroxide.
Epiduo Gel – adapalene/benzoyl peroxide combination.

🎥 Educational Video on Adapalene Therapy

👨‍⚕️ Expert Insight: Dr. Rina Shah, Dermatologist

“Adapalene 0.1% offers an excellent balance between efficacy and tolerability. Adapen Gel’s vehicle further minimizes irritation, making it suitable even for sensitive skin types.”