Adapel Cream

Adapel Cream — Adapalene

Generic Name: Adapalene 0.1% Cream

Manufacturer: Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Drug Class: Topical Retinoid — Acne Treatment

Dosage Form: Cream

Prescription Status: Prescription Only (Rx)

Mechanism of Action

Adapalene is a third-generation synthetic retinoid that selectively binds retinoic acid receptors (RAR-β and RAR-γ) in keratinocytes. It normalises follicular keratinisation — the primary event in comedone formation — and has anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting arachidonic acid metabolite production. The cream formulation provides effective retinoid activity with lower irritation than gel formulations, making it suitable for dry or sensitive skin types.

Relevance to diabetes: Hyperinsulinaemia and elevated IGF-1 (common in Type 2 Diabetes and insulin resistance) promote sebaceous gland activity and androgen excess, exacerbating acne. Adapalene addresses the underlying comedonal pathology while reducing inflammation.

Indications

• Mild to moderate acne vulgaris
• Comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads)
• Mild inflammatory acne (papules and pustules)
• Maintenance treatment to prevent acne recurrence

Dosage and Administration

Warnings

• Initial purging (transient worsening) common in first 2–4 weeks — persist unless severe
• Increases photosensitivity — daily sunscreen is mandatory throughout treatment
• Contraindicated in pregnancy — retinoid category; use effective contraception
• Do not apply to irritated, eczematous, or sunburned skin

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to adapalene or any retinoid
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Side Effects

• Dryness, peeling, erythema — very common initially
• Burning or stinging on application — common
• Photosensitivity — common; sunscreen mandatory
• Contact dermatitis — uncommon

Storage

Store below 25°C. Do not freeze. Protect from sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.