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Home > Drug Category > Acne Medication > Aklief and Equivalent

Aklief Information

Aklief (trifarotene) is a topical retinoid medication used to treat acne vulgaris on the face, chest, shoulders, and back in patients 9 years of age and older. It's a 0.005% concentration cream. The active ingredient, trifarotene, is a fourth-generation retinoid that works by binding to specific retinoic acid receptors (RARs) in the skin, particularly (RAR) gamma, to normalize the shedding of cells that line the pores. This helps prevent new acne lesions from forming and also reduces inflammation. Aklief is a prescription-only medication and is for external use only. Its unique formulation and receptor specificity make it particularly effective for treating acne on the large surface areas of the trunk (chest, shoulders, and back) in addition to the face.

Aklief Side Effects

The most common side effects of Aklief may include irritation at the application site, such as redness (erythema), scaling (exfoliation), dryness, and stinging or burning. These are often part of a "retinization" process where the skin adapts to the medication and are most common during the first few weeks of treatment. They typically become less severe with continued use. You should call your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, such as:
• Allergic reactions: Signs include a widespread rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing.
• Severe skin irritation: If the irritation becomes severe, persistent, or if you experience significant swelling or blistering, stop using the medication and contact your doctor.

Aklief Precautions

Do not use Aklief if you are allergic to trifarotene or any of its ingredients. Aklief is for topical use only and should not be used in the eyes, mouth, or vagina. The medication can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. You should avoid or minimize exposure to sunlight, including sunlamps and tanning beds, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. You should tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. The use of other topical acne treatments or products that may dry or irritate the skin (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, abrasive soaps) should be used with caution, as this may increase skin irritation.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. While animal studies have shown no effect on fetal development with topical application, Aklief is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as the impact on humans are unknown. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is not known if trifarotene passes into breast milk, and a decision should be made to either stop nursing or discontinue the medication, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Aklief is typically applied once daily in the evening to the affected areas on the face, chest, shoulders, and back. A pea-sized amount is generally sufficient for the face. After applying, gently rub the cream into the skin until it is fully absorbed. It's crucial to wash your hands thoroughly after application. Avoid using an excessive amount of cream, as this won't increase effectiveness but may increase the risk of skin irritation. Consistency is key to achieving optimal results. If you miss a dose, simply apply the next dose at the regular time. Do not double up on doses. Visible improvements may take several weeks, and it's essential to continue treatment as directed for at least 12 weeks. Store Aklief at room temperature, protected from light and moisture. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Aklief?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Aklief.