An overview of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide once-daily topical gel as a therapeutic option for acne

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Acne vulgaris is the most common skin condition worldwide, and it is associated with substantial psychological comorbidity. Topical therapies – including retinoids, antibiotics, and benzoyl peroxide – are the cornerstones of treatment for patients with acne. The main barriers to care in the treatment of acne are poor adherence to therapy and lack of tolerability.

Areas covered

Herein, the authors review the safety and efficacy of adapalene/benzoyl peroxide combination gel (0.1%/2.5% and 0.3%/2.5%), as well as its specific mechanisms of action that target acne vulgaris. The authors also offer an expert opinion on the use of adapalene/benzoyl peroxide gel compared with other topical therapies.

Expert opinion

Adapalene/benzoyl peroxide gel is safe and highly effective in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Its efficacy, tolerability, and ease-of-use are superior to other topical acne therapies, and its use does not contribute to antibiotic resistance. However, the cost of adapalene/benzoyl peroxide gel and lack of available generics may prohibit its use.

KEYWORDS:

• Acne vulgaris
• adapalene
• benzoyl peroxide
• combination therapy
• retinoids
• topical

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Colby Purvis for his assistance in preparing the accompanying figures.

Declaration of interest

Over the past 5 years, S Feldman has received research grants, speaking and/or consulting support from AbbVie, Amgen, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Alvotech, vTv Therapeutics, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Samsung, Pfizer, Sanofi, Regeneron, Boehringer Ingelheim, Dermavant, Galderma, Arcutis, Novartis, UCB Pharma, Helsinn, Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd., Almirall, Leo Pharma, Mylan, Merck & Co, Pierre Fabre, Promius, Foamix, Forte, TwoXar, Arena Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Menlo, Ortho Pharmaceutical, Mayne Pharma, Sienna Biopharmaceuticals, Avva, Alcimed, and Qurient. He is founder and majority owner of www.DrScore.com and founder and part owner of Causa Research. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

Reviewer disclosures

Peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.