Adapalene

Retinoid (skin)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Adapalene is a retinoid (skin) found in 2 medicines sold in India, such as Deriva, Deriva CMS. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

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).

Brands of Adapalene (1)

Deriva

Combination medicines that contain Adapalene (1)

Deriva CMS

Common questions

What is Adapalene used for?

Treats acne by unclogging pores.

How does Adapalene work?

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

How should I take Adapalene?

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

What are the side effects of Adapalene?

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

Does Adapalene interact with other medicines?

Avoid using with other strong drying products at first.

Is Adapalene safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

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

Does Adapalene need a prescription in India?

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

Which brands contain Adapalene?

Deriva, Deriva CMS.

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.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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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.