Action and Spectrum

Mechanism of action and spectrum

adapalene is a retinoid that normalizes the turnover of cells within hair follicles and reduces the formation of comedones. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.

benzoyl peroxide is a bactericidal and keratolytic agent that reduces the amount of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a bacterium associated with acne, and promotes the shedding of dead skin cells.

The combination of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide effectively treats acne because they target different aspects of the acne process. adapalene works to reduce the formation of comedones and normalize cell turnover. In contrast, benzoyl peroxide works to reduce the amount of P. acnes and promote the shedding of dead skin cells

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined:

>10%

dryness (1-41%)

erythema (1-27%)

burning/stinging (3-41%)

scaling (1-35%)

1-10%

burning at the application site (2%)

skin irritation (1%)

contact dermatitis (3%)

skin irritation (1%)

Post-marketing reports

blister

eczema

local skin pain

rash

skin discoloration

throat tightness

allergic contact dermatitis

conjunctivitis

eyelid edema

pruritis

swelling

sunburn

hyperpigmentation

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindications

Some of the contraindications for adapalene and benzoyl peroxide include:

• Hypersensitivity to adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, or any of the ingredients in the formulation
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Severely sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin
• Use of any other topical acne medications or products that contain resorcinol, salicylic acid, or sulfur
• Skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, or other sensitive skin conditions

Caution

• Skin irritation: This medication can cause skin irritation, dryness, redness, peeling, itching, or stinging. These symptoms are typically mild and improve over time, but in some cases, they can be severe.
• Sun sensitivity: This medication can increase sun sensitivity and the risk of sunburn. Sunscreen and protective clothing should be used when spending time in the sun.
• Pregnancy: There is limited data on the use of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide in pregnancy, and it is not known if the medication is safe for use during pregnancy. Pregnant women should consult a healthcare professional before using this medication.
• Breastfeeding: It is unknown if adapalene and benzoyl peroxide is excreted in breast milk, so breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using this medication.
• Other medications: This medication can interact with other topical medications, so it is essential to inform a healthcare professional about all topical medications that are being used

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: Insufficient data available

Lactation: Excretion of the drug in human breast milk is unknown

Pregnancy category:

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology

adapalene is a topical retinoid medication used for the treatment of acne. Its mechanism of action is not fully understood. Still, it is thought to bind to specific retinoic acid nuclear receptors and modulate cellular differentiation, keratinization, and inflammatory processes

benzoyl peroxide is an antimicrobial and keratolytic agent used to treat acne. It works by releasing active oxygen, which is effective against Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium found in sebaceous follicles and comedones. The keratolytic and desquamative effect of benzoyl peroxide may also contribute to its efficacy in treating acne

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide differs in that adapalene works by modulating cellular processes and has anti-inflammatory effects. In contrast, benzoyl peroxide works by killing bacteria and unplugging comedones

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

It is absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream

Distribution

The drug is widely distributed

Metabolism

It is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily in the urine

Elimination/excretion

Most of the absorbed drug is excreted within 24 hours of application

Adminstartion

Administration

adapalene and benzoyl peroxide are topical medications used to treat acne. They are usually applied to the affected areas of the skin once daily, usually in the evening. It is essential to follow a healthcare provider’s instructions and avoid excessive sun exposure while using these medications, as they can cause increased sensitivity to the sun

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet

Generic Name: adapalene and benzoyl peroxide

Pronounced: [ a-DAP-a-leen-and-BEN-zoyl-per-OX-ide ]

Why do we use adapalene and benzoyl peroxide?

adapalene and benzoyl peroxide are commonly used to treat acne. Adapalene is a retinoid that helps to unclog pores and decrease inflammation, while benzoyl peroxide acts as an antimicrobial agent to kill the bacteria that contribute to acne.

These medications are typically used together as a combination treatment for moderate to severe acne, as they have complementary mechanisms of action. They can be applied topically to the affected areas of the skin and are available in various forms, including gels, creams, and lotions