$Unique_ID{BRK03093}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{clindamycin (topical)}
$Subject{Cleocin T Upjohn Antibiotic clindamycin phosphate topical acne
vulgaris bacteria Propionibacterium acnes}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (C) 1993 Publications International, Ltd.


clindamycin (topical)
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BRAND NAME (Manufacturer)

     Cleocin T (Upjohn)

TYPE OF DRUG

     Antibiotic

INGREDIENT

     clindamycin phosphate

DOSAGE FORMS

     Topical solution (10 mg per ml)
     Topical gel (1%)
     Topical lotion (10 mg per ml)

STORAGE

     Clindamycin topical solution, gel, or lotion should be stored at room
temperature in a tightly closed container.  It should be kept away from flames
and heat because the solution is flammable (it contains alcohol).

USES

     Clindamycin topical solution is used to treat acne vulgaris.  It is an
antibiotic that is thought to act by suppressing the growth of the bacteria
Propionibacterium acnes.  These bacteria are probably responsible for the
formation of the acne sores.

TREATMENT

     Before applying topical clindamycin, wash the affected area thoroughly
with a mild soap and warm water.  Then rinse well and pat dry.  To avoid skin
irritation from the alcohol, wait at least 30 minutes after washing or shaving
before applying this medication.
     The solution is packaged in a bottle with an applicator tip that can be
used to apply the solution directly to the skin.  Press the applicator tip
firmly against your skin.  The pressure applied determines the amount of
medicine released.  Use the applicator with a dabbing motion rather than a
rolling motion.  A thin film of medication should be applied to the entire
area of skin affected by acne.
     If you miss a dose of this medication, apply it as soon as possible,
unless it is almost time for the next dose.  In that case, do not apply the
missed dose at all; just return to your regular dosing schedule.
     Topical clindamycin does not cure acne, but it helps to control it as
long as you continue to use the drug.
     It is important to continue to apply this medication for the entire time
prescribed by your doctor (which may be several months), even if your symptoms
disappear in several days.  If you stop applying the medication too soon, the
bacteria are given a chance to continue growing, and your infection could
recur.
     If there is no improvement in your condition after six weeks of using
this medication, check with your doctor.  However, it may take up to 12 weeks
before improvement in your acne is readily apparent.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Diarrhea, dry skin, fatigue, headache, nausea, oily skin, or stomach
irritation.  These side effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the
medication.
     If diarrhea becomes severe or prolonged, CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR.  Do not
take any antidiarrheal medicine.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
bloody or pus-containing diarrhea, increased urination, itching, sore throat,
or swelling of the face.

INTERACTIONS

     If you are using another topical medication as well as clindamycin, it is
best to apply them at different times to increase effectiveness and reduce the
chance of skin irritation.
     Use of abrasive or medicated cleansers, medicated cosmetics, or any
topical, alcohol-containing preparations (such as after-shave lotions or
perfume) in conjunction with topical clindamycin can result in excessive skin
dryness and irritation.

WARNINGS

     * Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to
any drugs, especially to clindamycin or lincomycin.
     * Tell your doctor if you have ever had colitis.
     * Because this medication contains alcohol, it can cause skin irritation
in sensitive areas.  In addition, it has an unpleasant taste if it gets on the
mouth or lips.  You should avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose,
or mouth, or in the areas surrounding scratches or burns.
     * You may continue to use cosmetics while applying this medication
(unless otherwise directed by your doctor), but it is best to use only
"water-based" cosmetics rather than ones with an oil base.
     * Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.  Although topical
clindamycin appears to be safe during pregnancy, extensive studies in humans
have not been conducted.  Also, tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an
infant.  It is not known whether topical clindamycin passes into breast milk.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.