Drug Groups

approved

Description

Adapalene is a topical retinoid primarily used in the treatment of acne and is also used (off-label) to treat keratosis pilaris as well as other skin conditions. It is currently marketed by Galderma under the trade names Differin in some countries, and Adaferin in India. [Wikipedia]

Indication

For the topical treatment of comedo, papular and pustular acne (acne vulgaris) of the face, chest or back.

Pharmacology

Adapalene is a chemically stable retinoid-like compound. Biochemical and pharmacological profile studies have demonstrated that adapalene is a modulator of cellular differentiation, keratinization, and inflammatory processes all of which represent important features in the pathology of acne vulgaris.

Toxicity

The acute oral toxicity of adapalene in mice and rats is greater than 10 mL/kg. Chronic ingestion of the drug may lead to the same side effects as those associated with excessive oral intake of Vitamin A.

Affected Organisms

Biotransformation

Metabolized mainly by O-demethylation, hydroxylation and conjugation, and excretion is primarily by the biliary route.

Absorption

Absorption of adapalene through human skin is low. Only trace amounts (<0.25 ng/mL) of parent substance have been found in the plasma of acne patients following chronic topical application of adapalene in controlled clinical trials

Elimination

Excretion appears to be primarily by the biliary route.

References

External Links