Clindamycin Topical Gel or Solution

What is this medication?

CLINDAMYCIN (KLIN da MYE sin) treats acne. It works by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria on your skin. It belongs to a group of medications called antibiotics.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cleocin T, Clinda-Derm, Clindagel, ClindaMax

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
• Large area of burned or damaged skin
• Skin conditions or sensitivity
• Stomach or intestine problems like colitis
• An unusual or allergic reaction to clindamycin, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. If you are treating a hand infection, only wash your hands before use. Do not get it in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed. Use the medication for the full course as directed by your care team, even if you think you are better. Do not stop using it unless your care team tells you to stop it early.

Apply a thin film of the medication to the affected area.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Medicated cosmetics, including coverup preparations
• Other acne products including benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or tretinoin
• Skin care products that have a high alcohol content (some shaving creams, lotions, or after shave lotion)
• Some skin cleansers or medicated soaps

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medication. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your care team if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Severe diarrhea, fever

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.