Dermatology Comparison
Tretinoin vs Adapalene
Price comparison in Canada
Adapalene starts at $17.00 per tube, while Tretinoin starts at $20.00 per tube in Canada. Tretinoin contains tretinoin 0.025–0.1%, while Adapalene contains adapalene (Differin). Last updated: 2026-02-26.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Tretinoin | Adapalene | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $20–$43 per tube | $17–$38 per tube |
| Cheapest Pharmacy | Costco ($19.49 per tube) | Costco ($16.49 per tube) |
| Generic Name | tretinoin 0.025–0.1% | adapalene (Differin) |
| Route | Topical cream/gel | Topical gel |
| Category | Dermatology | Dermatology |
| ODB Coverage | General Benefit | General Benefit |
Pharmacy Total Breakdown
| Pharmacy | Tretinoin | Adapalene |
|---|---|---|
| Costco | $19.49 per tube | $16.49 per tube |
| Walmart | $31.97 per tube | $27.97 per tube |
| Rexall | $38.99 per tube | $34.99 per tube |
| Shoppers Drug Mart | $42.99 per tube | $37.99 per tube |
Full Drug Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which is cheaper, Tretinoin or Adapalene?
- Adapalene is generally cheaper, starting at $17.00 per tube compared to $20.00 per tube for Tretinoin. The lowest price is at Costco ($16.49 per tube).
- What is the difference between Tretinoin and Adapalene?
- Tretinoin (tretinoin 0.025–0.1%) and Adapalene (adapalene (Differin)) are different medications in the dermatology category. Tretinoin is a topical cream/gel, while Adapalene is a topical gel.
- Is Tretinoin or Adapalene covered by provincial drug plans?
- Tretinoin: General Benefit on the Ontario Drug Benefit formulary. Adapalene: General Benefit on the Ontario Drug Benefit formulary.
Last updated: 2026-02-26