(brand name Adaferin), with its CAS registry number , has its IUPAC name of 6-[3-(adamantan-1-yl)-4-methoxyphenyl]naphthalene-2-carboxylic acid. And this chemical belongs to the category of dermatologic agents and it is a topical retinoid which is primarily used in the treatment of acne and is also used (off-label) to treat keratosis pilaris as well as other skin conditions.

Following are the detailed information of Adapalene:
(1). Indication of Adapalene: For the topical treatment of comedo, papular and pustular acne (acne vulgaris) of the face, chest or back.
(2). Pharmacodynamics of Adapalene: Adapalene is a chemically stable retinoid-like compound. Biochemical and pharmacological profile studies have demonstrated that adapalene is a modulator of cellular differentiation, keratinization, and inflammatory processes all of which represent important features in the pathology of acne vulgaris.
(3). Mechanism of action: Mechanistically, adapalene binds to specific retinoic acid nuclear receptors (gamma and beta) and retinoid X receptors but does not bind to the cytosolic receptor protein. Although the exact mode of action of adapalene is unknown, it is suggested that topical adapalene may normalize the differentiation of follicular epithelial cells resulting in decreased microcomedone formation.
(4). Absorption of Adapalene: Absorption of adapalene through human skin is low. Only trace amounts (<0.25 ng/mL) of parent substance have been found in the plasma of acne patients following chronic topical application of adapalene in controlled clinical trials.