Clindamycin is an antibiotic. It is used to treat acne (also known as pimple).
Apply Clindamycin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not apply more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as a topical solution, lotion, gel and foam.
If you are using the topical solution, lotion, or gel, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- For topical solution or lotion, shake the bottle well prior to use.
- Clean and dry the affected area before application.
- For topical lotion or gel, you may use your fingertips to rub the medicine gently onto the affected area until it disappears. Some topical solutions are available in a bottle that has an automatic pad dispenser where you can use the pad on the applicator to gently apply the medicine onto the affected skin. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
- Replace the cap of the tube or bottle.
If you are using the foam, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Remove the clear cap.
- Hold the can in an upright position and press the nozzle to put a small amount of the medicine into the clear cap. Do not place it directly into your hands.
- Pick up small amounts of the medicine using your fingertips then gently rub it onto the affected area until the foam disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
Avoid contact of this medicine with your eyes. Rinse immediately with water if it gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your infection.
Apply Clindamycin at regular intervals. Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.
If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not use Clindamycin if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or similar antibiotics such as lincomycin.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- history of inflammatory bowel disease (group of diseases that cause long-term inflammation of the digestive tract
- history of colitis (inflammation of the lining of the colon [large intestine]) associated with the use of an antibiotic
as Clindamycin may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have atopy (an inherited condition associated with heightened immune response to common allergens which may lead to allergic diseases including asthma).
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Clindamycin topical foam can be flammable. Avoid exposure of the medicine to fire and flames or smoking during and immediately after applying Clindamycin to your skin.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Clindamycin may cause any of the following side effects: drying of the skin, skin itching or redness, and skin oiliness.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
- severe, persistent or bloody diarrhoea accompanied by stomach pain or fever
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any of these medicines:
- medicines used for blocking pain and sensation, and relaxing the muscles during procedures
- other antibiotics e.g. erythromycin
- blood-thinning medicines
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Clindamycin.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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