adapalene + benzoyl peroxide (Actavis)

This drug is a topical gel formulation containing a combination of two active ingredients: adapalene (0.3%) and benzoyl peroxide (2.5%). Developed by Actavis Inc. (now part of Teva), it is a generic version of Galderma's Epiduo Forte. Adapalene is a naphthoic acid derivative with retinoid-like activity that binds to specific retinoic acid nuclear receptors (RAR-beta and RAR-gamma) to modulate cellular differentiation, keratinization, and inflammatory processes. Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidizing agent with bactericidal activity against *Cutibacterium acnes* (formerly *Propionibacterium acnes*) and possesses keratolytic and desquamative properties. This combination therapy is indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older.

Brand names

Epiduo ForteTactuPump Forte

Other names

adapalene and benzoyl peroxide gel, 0.3%/2.5%adapalene and benzoyl peroxide gel, 0.3%/2.5% (Actavis Laboratories UT, Inc.)