Clindamycin lotion is indicated for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Additional uses of topical clindamycin include:

• Skin infections such as erythrasma caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum, rosacea, periorificial dermatitis, folliculitis, stasis-related conditions, chronic lymphedema, and familial pemphigus
• Treatment of dermal ulcers

Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It is a semi-synthetic derivative of lincomycin and exhibits both antibacterial and anti-acne properties. Clindamycin works by binding to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis at an early stage. It is particularly effective against gram-positive and anaerobic bacteria.

Microbiology: Aerobic gram-positive cocci: Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis (including penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing strains), Streptococci, Pneumococci Anaerobic gram-negative bacilli: Bacteroides species, Fusobacterium species Anaerobic gram-positive non-spore forming bacilli: Propionibacterium species, Eubacterium species, Actinomyces species Anaerobic and microaerophilic gram-positive cocci: Peptococcus species, Peptostreptococcus species, microaerophilic streptococci, Clostridium perfringens

At first, wash the face or affected area gently with warm water or soap. When the skin is completely dried (about 30 minutes later) apply a thin film of Clindamycin lotion to the entire affected area twice daily. The Applied area should not be washed within 3 hours. Noticeable improvement is usually seen after about 6 weeks. However, 8 to 12 weeks of treatment may be required for maximum benefit. Eye, lip or nose contact should be avoided while applying Clindamycin lotion.

Clindamycin may enhance the effects of other neuromuscular blocking agents. Therefore, it should be used with caution in patients receiving these medicines. An in vitro antagonism has been observed between clindamycin and erythromycin. Because this interaction may be clinically significant, these two drugs should not be used together.

Adverse effects with clindamycin lotion are generally uncommon. Reported side effects may include skin irritation such as rash, itching, oily skin, dryness, redness (erythema), burning sensation, changes in skin pigmentation, as well as gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, colitis, and other GI disturbances.

There is not enough adequate data to confirm the safe use of clindamycin during pregnancy. Animal studies have not shown harmful effects on the fetus. It is not known whether clindamycin is excreted in breast milk after topical use. Therefore, clindamycin lotion should be used during lactation with caution.

Clindamycin lotion is not intended for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use. Avoid exposure to sunlight and sunlamps while using this medicine. Use sunscreen daily to protect the skin.

Overdose through intravaginal use is not possible. However, accidental ingestion of the product may cause effects similar to those seen with therapeutic doses of oral clindamycin.

Macrolides

Store the tube below 25°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.