ADALPANE
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Does anybody have any experience they would like to share with the new 
topical Retinoid, Differin gel (adalapene)?

I have just prescribed it this week to three kids with recalcitrant to 
everything acne.  I'd like to know what to expect when I see them in 6 
weeks.

Warren Winkelman, MD, FRCPC
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Lot of experience with Differin - very well tolerated, much better than VAA
or BP, and can be used BID after a few weeks. Its a selective retinoic acid
receptor agonist, so you get more benefits with less side effects. Expect it
will also be good for sun damage. Explain that Differin works by PREVENTING
acne, so they have to put it EVERYWHERE every day long term to get and
MAINTAIN good results. For this reason I order the 45 g. tube with 30
refills.

I can't tolerate even 0.01 VAA cream, but Differin BID on my own face is no
problem.  Much less complaints from patients than with VAA or BP - so long
term: better results for them, less hassle for me, and better compliance.

Its not magic - if they have terrible acne they ought to be on Accutane (or
else their acne is "resistant" because of poor compliance). 

Had a pregnant lady with a lot of flat warts on the face - nothing worked -
VAA, 5-FU. Cleared right up on Differin! I'm bringing in some more flat wart
people to see if this is real or just a fluke.

KC Smith MD FRCPC
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