Topical Retinoids for Acne

Tretinoin - Do not administer with Benzoyl Peroxide, administer at different times 

Adapalene - Least irritating retinoid, available in combo with Benzoyl Peroxide 

Tazarotene - Most irritating retinoid, Pregnancy Category X 



Topical retinoids are commonly used medications in the treatment of acne. Tretinoin, Tazarotene, and Adapalene are the 3 drugs in this class. Adapalene is most commonly used, followed by tretinoin. Important to note that benzoyl peroxide oxidizes tretinoin, so these 2 drugs should be administered at different times. Tazarotene is not used as often because it can be irritating to the skin. Important to discuss with patients that it will take a few months until they see improvements, so continue to administer to entire face.



Jarred Prudencio, PharmD - https://www.instagram.com/ambcarerx



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