Clindamycin skin solution or gel

What is this medicine?

CLINDAMYCIN (KLIN da MYE sin) is a lincosamide antibiotic. It is used on the skin to stop the growth of certain bacteria that cause acne.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Wash hands before and after use. Wash affected area and gently pat dry. Apply a thin layer of this medicine to the affected area as often as prescribed by your doctor or health care professional. Do not use skin products near the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you do get any in your eyes rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this medicine may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• diarrhea that is watery or severe

• pain on swallowing

• stomach pain or cramps

• unusual bleeding or bruising

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

• dry skin

• nausea, vomiting

What may interact with this medicine?

• 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

What if I miss a dose?

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

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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

• diarrhea

• inflammatory bowel disease

• kidney or liver disease

• stomach problems like colitis

• an unusual or allergic reaction to clindamycin, lincomycin, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your acne should start to get better within about 6 weeks. Complete improvement may take longer. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you do not see any improvement.

Your skin may get very dry and scale or peel. Let your doctor or health care professional know if this happens. Do not use any soothing cream or ointment without advice.