Which retinoid is most commonly prescribed for the treatment of acne?

The most commonly prescribed retinoid for the treatment of acne is Tretinoin. Tretinoin is a topical retinoid that works by increasing cell turnover, preventing the clogging of pores, and reducing inflammation, making it particularly effective for various types of acne. It is widely preferred in clinical practice due to its established efficacy and favorable safety profile for many patients.

Accutane, which is synonymous with isotretinoin, is typically reserved for severe cases of acne that are resistant to other treatments. While it can also be very effective, its use is more restricted because it has a higher risk of side effects and requires careful patient monitoring.

Adapalene is another topical retinoid that is often used for the treatment of acne, but it is not as universally prescribed as Tretinoin. Each of these medications offers unique benefits and may be selected based on individual patient needs, but in terms of general usage and prescription frequency, Tretinoin is the most common choice for treating acne.