FDA Gives Thumbs Up to First OTC Retinoid

The FDA has approved Differin Gel 0.1 percent for OTC use, marking the first time that a drug in the retinoid class has gone OTC.

The topical drug, distributed by Galderma Laboratories, is intended for people 12 years of age and older and includes the first new active ingredient for OTC treatment of acne since the 1980s, according to the agency.

The safety and efficacy of the gel were established in five clinical studies in people with mild to moderate acne.