Deriva

Gel · Glenmark
PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE

Deriva is a gel made by Glenmark that contains Adapalene 0.1%. Adapalene is a retinoid (skin): treats acne by unclogging pores.

Ingredient (salt)Amount
Adapalene0.1%

What it is used for

Treats acne by unclogging pores.

How it works

A retinoid gel that unblocks pores and calms inflammation in acne; gentler than tretinoin.

How to take it

Apply a pea-sized amount to the whole face at night after washing. Results in 8 to 12 weeks; use sunscreen.

Common side effects

  • Dryness
  • Redness
  • Stinging
  • Peeling in the first weeks

Get medical help straight away if

Severe irritation or swelling

Be careful

Causes dryness and sun sensitivity; apply at night; not in pregnancy.

Other medicines and interactions

Avoid using with other strong drying products at first.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid in pregnancy; ask your doctor about breastfeeding (do not apply to the chest).

Common questions

What is Deriva?

Deriva is a gel by Glenmark containing Adapalene 0.1%.

What is Deriva used for?

Treats acne by unclogging pores.

How should I take Deriva?

Apply a pea-sized amount to the whole face at night after washing. Results in 8 to 12 weeks; use sunscreen. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.

What are the side effects of Deriva?

Common side effects include: Dryness, redness, stinging, peeling in the first weeks. Get medical help straight away for: Severe irritation or swelling.

Does Deriva need a prescription?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Can I take Deriva in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Avoid in pregnancy; ask your doctor about breastfeeding (do not apply to the chest).

What are the substitutes for Deriva?

We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

🔎 Search another medicine

For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.