Topical clindamycin is used to treat acne. Clindamycin is in a class of medications called lincomycin antibiotics. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of bacteria that cause acne and by decreasing swelling.
Topical clindamycin comes as a foam, a gel, a solution (liquid), a lotion, and a pledget (swab) to apply to the skin. The foam and one brand of the gel (Clindagel®) are usually applied once a day. The solution, lotion, pledgets, and most brands of gel are applied twice a day. Apply topical clindamycin at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use topical clindamycin exactly as directed. Do not apply more or less of it or apply it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Topical clindamycin is only for use on the skin. Do not swallow the medication, and do not get the medication in your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. If you do get the medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth, or on broken skin, rinse it out with plenty of cool water.
Your medication will probably come with directions for use. Read these directions and follow them carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to apply topical clindamycin.
Shake the lotion well before each use to mix the medication evenly.
The pledgets are for one-time use only. Do not remove a pledget from its foil pouch until you are ready to use it. Throw away each pledget after you have used it one time.
The foam may catch fire. Stay away from open flames and do not smoke while you are applying the foam and for a short time afterward.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra medication to make up for a missed dose.
dry or peeling skin
itching or burning skin
redness of skin
oily skin
new pimples or blemishes
headache
diarrhea
watery or bloody stools
stomach cramps
Topical clindamycin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Do not freeze. Do not expose clindamycin foam to temperatures higher than 120 °F (49 °C), and do not puncture or incinerate the container. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Reviewed - 08/01/2010
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.