This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Clindamycin Topical Consumer Information
CLINDAMYCIN TOPICAL
Generic Name: clindamycin topical (klin da MYE sin)
Brand Names: C/T/S, Cleocin T, Clinda-Derm, Clindets Pledget
What is the most important information I should know about clindamycin topical?
- It may take up to 3 months to see the effects of this drug. Do not stop using clindamycin topical if you do not see results immediately.
- Avoid your eyes, nose, mouth, and lips when applying clindamycin topical. If medication gets in any of these areas, wash with water.
- Stop using clindamycin topical and talk to your doctor if you experience severe diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
What is clindamycin topical?
- Clindamycin is an antibiotic. Clindamycin topical prevents bacteria from growing on your skin.
- Clindamycin is used topically to treat bacterial infections such as acné.
- Clindamycin topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not use clindamycin topical?
- Do not use clindamycin without the approval of your doctor if you have a history of enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis (severe diarrhea).
- Clindamycin topical is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not use clindamycin topical without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- Clindamycin topical passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not use clindamycin topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I use clindamycin topical?
- Use clindamycin topical exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Wash your hands before and after using this medication.
- Clean and dry the area to which you will apply clindamycin topical. Apply a thin film of the medication. Clindamycin topical is usually applied once or twice daily. Follow your doctor's directions.
- Avoid your eyes, nose, mouth, and lips when applying clindamycin topical. If medication gets in any of these areas, wash the area with water.
- It may take up to 3 months to see the effects of this drug. Do not stop using it if you do not see results immediately.
- Store clindamycin topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only your next regularly scheduled dose. Keep applications at least 12 hours apart.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a clindamycin overdose include severe or bloody diarrhea along with abdominal pain.
What should I avoid while taking clindamycin topical?
- Avoid applying clindamycin topical to broken or irritated skin. This medication could make your condition worse.
- Avoid using other topical products on the same area at the same time unless directed to do so by your doctor.
- Avoid using harsh, abrasive, or irritating cleansers, perfumes, or cosmetics during therapy with clindamycin topical.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.