Uses
This medication is used to treat acne. It helps to decrease the number of acne lesions. Clindamycin is an antibiotic which works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
How to use Clindamycin Phosphate(Topical) Gel
Use this medication only on the skin. Clean and dry the affected area first. Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor.
If you are using the lotion, shake the bottle well before using. Apply a thin layer of medication to the affected area as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day.
If you are using the medicated pad or swab, apply to the the affected area gently with it, then discard. Depending on the size of the area to be treated, more than one pad or swab may be necessary.
If you are using the foam, apply it to the affected areas as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Use enough to cover the entire affected area. Do not spray the foam directly onto your hands or face, because the foam will begin to melt on contact with warm skin. Instead spray the amount needed directly into the cap or onto a cool surface such as a counter top. If the can seems warm or the foam seems runny, run the can under cold water. Please read the patient information leaflet available from your pharmacist for specific instructions on how to use the foam, and ask about any information that is unclear.
Wash your hands after use.
Avoid contact with your eyes, nose, mouth or any areas of broken skin. If you accidentally get medication in these areas, rinse well with plenty of cool water.
It may take between 2 to 6 weeks to notice an improvement in your condition, and up to 12 weeks to see the full benefit.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.
Side Effects
Burning, itching, dryness, redness, oily skin or skin peeling may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication may be absorbed into your bloodstream and very rarely cause a severe intestinal condition due to a bacteria called C. difficile. This condition may occur during treatment or weeks to months after treatment has stopped. Tell your doctor right away if you develop: diarrhea that doesn't stop, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, blood/mucus in your stool.
If you have these symptoms, do not use anti-diarrhea or opioid products because they may make symptoms worse.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using clindamycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to lincomycin; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: chronic asthma or hay fever (atopic conditions), intestinal diseases (such as ulcerative colitis, enteritis, C. difficile-associated diarrhea).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.
It is unknown if the medication in this product passes into breast milk. While there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669. This medication may be harmful if swallowed.
Do not share this medication with others.
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.