Should I make the switch?

I have been using Differin gel and minocycline for 3 months with wonderful results so far and no side effects. My problem is that my insurance does not cover the cost of Differin and it is very expensive ( $200). I let my doctor know and he gave me a prescription for Retin A and said it was the same medication but its cheaper and should be covered by my insurance. I'm scared to switch to something new when i'm getting the results i want with the Differin, especially since he said Retin A is harsher. Is it worth the switch?

[loiloi]

Hi. Differin is considered to be generally better tolerated than Retin-A. If you do switch and find your skin becomes sensitized, rebalance it with gentle cleansing products. Effclar H cleansing foam by La Roche-Posay is specially formulated to care for oily skin made fragile by over-drying skincare.
Taking a combined oral contraceptive pill such as Yasmin, Ortho-Tricylin or Diane35 can benefit females with acne. Would your insurance cover these brands, or their generic versions? Avoid the mini-pill (everyday pill) depot shot or hormonal IUD though as these may induce acne.
If your doctor considers that you warrant both oral antibiotics and the pill use a barrier method of contraception as there is a risk that tetracyclines may reduce the contraceptive properties of the pill.
Eloise.

[azalea82]

Retin-A is available as cream or gel and in many different strengths (0.025%, 0.05%, etc).  Although it is harsher than Differin, starting with a low strength should minimize the harshness.  

[azalea82]

Another option is to call around for price quotes.  Costco pharmacy offers Differin for $160.  Plus, there is a $25 rebate available at the Differin website.  So this would bring the cost down a bit.  

In addition, Galderma (company that makes Differin) has a patient assistance program that provides free medications to qualifying patients.  Google for more info.  Looks like there's some paperwork to fill out.  

[stilettochic]

Thank you for all of your suggestions. I think I might shop around a bit for price quotes for the Differin and I did go on the website for the rebate.