adapic c gel - Adapalene (0.10% w/w) + Clindamycin (1% w/w) medicine

Adapic C Gel: Comprehensive Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Atopic Laboratories 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or fever (possible pseudomembranous colitis)
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
  • Severe blistering, peeling, or swelling of the skin
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Decreased urine output

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is adapic c gel used for?

This medicine is a topical gel containing adapalene 0.10% and clindamycin 1%, used to treat acne vulgaris. It works by reducing comedone formation and killing acne-causing bacteria. Apply a thin layer once daily in the evening.

  • Generic Name: Adapalene (0.10% w/w) + Clindamycin (1% w/w)
  • Manufacturer: Atopic Laboratories
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 adapic c gel के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मुँहासे (एक्ने) के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाने वाली टॉपिकल जेल है। इसमें एडापेलीन और क्लिंडामाइसिन दो सक्रिय तत्व हैं। एडापेलीन बंद रोमछिद्रों को खोलने और नए दाने बनने से रोकने में मदद करता है, जबकि क्लिंडामाइसिन मुँहासे पैदा करने वाले बैक्टीरिया को मारता है और सूजन कम करता है। यह दवा 12 साल और उससे अधिक उम्र के लोगों के लिए है। इसे रात में एक बार प्रभावित त्वचा पर पतली परत में लगाएं।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में त्वचा का सूखना, पपड़ी बनना, लालिमा, जलन और खुजली शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और इलाज जारी रखने पर कम हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन एलर्जी, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, या गंभीर दस्त हो सकते हैं। ऐसा होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का इस्तेमाल केवल बाहरी त्वचा पर करें। आँखों, होंठों और म्यूकस मेम्ब्रेन से दूर रखें। धूप से बचें और सनस्क्रीन लगाएं। टूटी या जली हुई त्वचा पर न लगाएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 adapic c gel Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Acne vulgaris","description":"Reduces both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions by targeting multiple pathogenic factors.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: []

Primary treatment for: Acne vulgaris

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Adapalene (0.10% w/w) + Clindamycin (1% w/w)
Brand Nameadapic c gel
ManufacturerAtopic Laboratories
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassDERMA
Action Class
Route of AdministrationTopical
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C). Protect from freezing and direct sunlight. Keep the tube tightly closed.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Apply a pea-sized amount to the entire affected area, not just individual pimples.
2
Start with every other day application if you have sensitive skin, then increase to daily as tolerated.
3
Use a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer to reduce dryness and peeling.
4
Apply sunscreen daily and avoid excessive sun exposure, as adapalene increases photosensitivity.
5
Do not use other topical acne treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid) at the same time unless directed by your doctor.
6
Be patient; it may take 8-12 weeks to see full results. Do not stop treatment prematurely.
7
If you develop severe diarrhea, stop the medicine and consult a doctor immediately.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Blackheads and whiteheads
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
Inflammatory acne (red pimples)
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionAdapalene: minimal percutaneous absorption; systemic levels are negligible. Clindamycin: approximately 1-2% of a topical dose is absorbed systemically when applied to intact skin.
DistributionAdapalene: retained primarily in the epidermis and follicular epithelium. Clindamycin: distributes into skin and soft tissues; systemic distribution is limited after topical application.
Protein BindingAdapalene: >99% bound to plasma proteins. Clindamycin: approximately 90% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismAdapalene: metabolized primarily in the liver via CYP2C8 and CYP3A4. Clindamycin: metabolized in the liver to active and inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeAdapalene: terminal half-life approximately 7-12 hours after oral administration; topical half-life not well established. Clindamycin: approximately 2-3 hours after systemic administration.
ExcretionAdapalene: primarily excreted in bile and feces. Clindamycin: excreted in urine and feces.
BioavailabilityAdapalene: negligible systemic bioavailability after topical application. Clindamycin: approximately 1-2% systemic bioavailability after topical application.
Onset of ActionInitial improvement may be seen within 2-4 weeks, but maximum benefit typically requires 8-12 weeks of consistent use.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information for topical application.
Duration of ActionThe effects are cumulative with continued use; therapeutic benefit persists as long as treatment is continued.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with complementary mechanisms. Adapalene is a synthetic retinoid that selectively binds to retinoic acid receptors (RAR-beta and RAR-gamma) in the skin, modulating gene expression to normalize keratinocyte differentiation, reduce microcomedone formation, and decrease inflammation. Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic that binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of Cutibacterium acnes, inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and thereby reducing the bacterial population in hair follicles. Together, they address both the follicular hyperkeratinization and bacterial colonization that contribute to acne.

Mechanism Steps

1
Adapalene binding to RAR: Adapalene binds selectively to retinoic acid receptors in the skin, modulating gene transcription.
2
Normalization of keratinization: This binding normalizes follicular keratinocyte differentiation and reduces microcomedone formation.
3
Clindamycin inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis: Clindamycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of Cutibacterium acnes, inhibiting protein synthesis and reducing bacterial load.
4
Reduction of inflammation: Both agents contribute to decreased inflammatory mediators, leading to reduced redness and swelling of acne lesions.

💡 How to Take adapic c gel

Strength: Gel containing adapalene 0.10% w/w and clindamycin 1% w/w.

1Wash your hands and the affected area with a mild cleanser.
2Pat the skin dry gently.
3Apply a pea-sized amount of the gel to the affected areas.
4Spread a thin layer evenly over the skin.
5Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
6Wash your hands after application.
7Use once daily in the evening.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageApply a thin layer of this medicine to the affected areas of the skin once daily in the evening. Wash the area gently with a mild cleanser and pat dry before application. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. The dose and duration of treatment must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the severity of acne and response to therapy.
Pediatric DosageSafety and efficacy in children under 12 years of age have not been established. Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageClinical studies of this medicine did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Use with caution and individualize dosing.
Renal ImpairmentNo dosage adjustment is required for topical use in patients with renal impairment, as systemic absorption is minimal.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dosage adjustment is required for topical use in patients with hepatic impairment, as systemic absorption is minimal.
Maximum Daily DoseApply once daily. Do not exceed the recommended frequency.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Not applicable
This is a topical medicine; food does not affect its use.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not apply a double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of adapic c gel

✅ Common Side Effects

Dry skin (Common (10-30%))
Apply a moisturizer and reduce frequency if severe. Consult doctor if persists.
Scaling and peeling (Common (10-30%))
Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers. Avoid other irritating products.
Redness (Common (5-20%))
Usually subsides with continued use. If severe, consult doctor.
Burning or stinging (Common (5-15%))
Apply to dry skin and wait 20-30 minutes after washing. Discontinue if severe.
Itching (Common (5-15%))
Avoid scratching. Use cool compresses. Consult doctor if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Pseudomembranous colitis (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop use and seek immediate medical attention if you develop severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or fever.
Severe skin irritation (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Discontinue use and consult a doctor if you experience severe blistering, peeling, or swelling.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Contact dermatitis
Discontinue use and consult a doctor.
Photosensitivity reaction
Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen. Consult doctor if severe.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Tretinoin Major
Erythromycin (oral) Moderate
Neuromuscular blockers Major
Salicylic acid Moderate
Benzoyl peroxide Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other topical retinoids or keratolytics (e.g., tretinoin, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide)
  • Neuromuscular blocking agents (e.g., atracurium, vecuronium)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Oral antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin)
  • Other topical acne treatments (e.g., sulfur, resorcinol)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

No known interaction between this topical medicine and alcohol. However, alcohol consumption may worsen acne and should be limited.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to adapalene, clindamycin, or any component of the gel","History of regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis","Use on broken, sunburned, or eczematous skin","Concurrent use with other topical retinoids or keratolytics"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.","May cause photosensitivity. Use sunscreen and protective clothing.","Do not use on extensive areas or under occlusive dressings.","Discontinue if severe irritation or allergic reaction occurs.","Clindamycin can cause pseudomembranous colitis; monitor for severe diarrhea.","Safety and efficacy in children under 12 years not established."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether adapalene or clindamycin are excreted in human milk after topical application. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised. Consult a doctor before using while breastfeeding. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant exposure.

💊 Overdose Management

This medicine is for topical use. Overdose is unlikely. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately. If excessive application causes severe irritation, wash the area thoroughly with water and consult a doctor.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

For external use only. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin once daily in the evening. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Use a sunscreen daily and avoid excessive sun exposure, as adapalene can increase photosensitivity. Do not use this medicine on broken, sunburned, or eczematous skin. Do not cover the treated area with tight dressings or occlusive materials unless directed by a doctor. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should consult a doctor before using this medicine. Keep out of reach of children. Do not share this medicine with others.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Acne is less common in the elderly. If prescribed, use with caution and monitor for skin irritation. No dosage adjustment is typically needed.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Topical adapalene has minimal systemic absorption, but caution is advised. Clindamycin is generally considered safe, but always consult a doctor.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you have recently had surgery, consult your doctor before using this medicine on the affected area. Avoid applying to healing wounds.

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific precautions for dental procedures. Inform your dentist about all medicines you are using.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Cleanse your face gently twice daily with a mild cleanser.
🥗
Avoid picking or squeezing pimples to prevent scarring.
😴
Use oil-free, non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products.
💧
Manage stress through relaxation techniques, as stress can worsen acne.
🧘
Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to support skin health.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

No specific exercise restrictions. However, if you experience skin irritation, avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or friction on treated areas. Shower after exercise to remove sweat and oil.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
Limit high-glycemic foods and dairy if they seem to trigger acne.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid excessive consumption of sugary and processed foods.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is applied topically and is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. You can continue your normal daily activities. However, avoid excessive sun exposure during peak hours.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop using this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects, stop use and seek medical advice. Treatment duration is typically 8-12 weeks, but may be extended based on your doctor's recommendation.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe. Adapalene may cause increased photosensitivity, so sun protection is essential. Clindamycin use may rarely lead to bacterial resistance. Regular follow-up with a dermatologist is recommended to monitor response and adjust treatment.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Benzoyl peroxide

An alternative topical agent for mild to moderate acne.

Evidence: Well-established
Oral antibiotics

For moderate to severe acne, oral antibiotics like doxycycline may be prescribed.

Evidence: Well-established
Hormonal therapy

For women with hormonal acne, oral contraceptives or anti-androgens may be used.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interaction with vaccines. Continue routine vaccinations as scheduled.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If traveling to a hot climate, keep it in a cool, dry place. No time zone adjustments are needed for topical use. Declare it at customs if required.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 22-year-old college student with moderate acne
She started using this medicine as prescribed, applying it every night. After 4 weeks, she noticed less oiliness and fewer new pimples. By 12 weeks, her acne was significantly clearer. She experienced mild dryness initially, which was managed with a moisturizer.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use and proper skin care lead to good results. Mild side effects are common and manageable.
👤 A 30-year-old woman with hormonal acne
She was hesitant to use a retinoid due to fear of irritation. Her dermatologist recommended this combination gel. She started with alternate-day application and gradually increased to daily. She saw improvement in both blackheads and inflammatory lesions after 10 weeks.
💡 Lesson: Gradual introduction can improve tolerability. Combination therapy targets multiple causes of acne.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may see initial improvement in 2-4 weeks, but full benefits typically take 8-12 weeks of consistent use.

Q: Can I use this medicine with other acne products?

A: Do not use other topical acne treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid) at the same time unless directed by your doctor, as this may increase irritation.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose.

Q: Can I apply makeup over this medicine?

A: Yes, you can apply non-comedogenic makeup after the gel has dried. However, avoid heavy makeup that may clog pores.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I use this medicine long-term?
  • Will it make my skin sensitive to the sun?
  • Can I use makeup over this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my other acne treatments?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I use it during pregnancy?

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine works immediately.
    Fact: It may take 8-12 weeks to see full benefits.
  • Myth: More application means faster results.
    Fact: Applying more than a thin layer can cause severe irritation without added benefit.
  • Myth: You can stop using it once acne clears.
    Fact: Acne may recur; maintenance therapy is often needed.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Adapalene 0.10% + Clindamycin 1% gel (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Adapic C Gel
  • Deriva-CMS Gel
  • Adaferin-C Gel

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Adapalene 0.10% + Clindamycin 1% gel","composition":"Adapalene 0.10% + Clindamycin 1%","uses":"Acne vulgaris","notes":"Combination of retinoid and antibiotic"},{"medicine":"Adapalene 0.10% gel","composition":"Adapalene 0.10%","uses":"Acne vulgaris","notes":"Retinoid only"},{"medicine":"Clindamycin 1% gel","composition":"Clindamycin 1%","uses":"Acne vulgaris","notes":"Antibiotic only"}]

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