Clindamycin (Lotion)

Indications

Clindamycin lotion is indicated in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Other uses of topical Clindamycin lotion are:

Skin infections such as erythrasma caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum; rosacea, periorificial dermatitis, folliculitis, stasis, chronic lymphaedema and familial pemphigus.
Dermal ulcers.

Pharmacology

Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic used in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible microorganisms. Clindamycin is a semisynthetic antibiotic derived from lincomycin. It has antiacne and antibacterial activity. It binds with the 50s subunit of the bacterial ribosome and inhibits the early stage of protein synthesis. It is highly potent against gram positive and anaerobic bacteria.

Microbiology: Aerobic gram-positive cocci, including: Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis (penicillinase and non-penicillinase producing strains), Streptococci, Pneumococci. Anaerobic gram-negative bacilli, including: Bacteroides species, Fusobacterium species. Anaerobic gram-positive non-spore forming bacilli, including: Propionibacterium species, Eubacterium species, Actinomyces species. Anaerobic and microaerophilic gram-positive cocci, including: Peptococcus species, Peptostreptococcus species, Microaerophilic streptococci, C. perfringes

Dosage And Administration

At first, wash the face or affected area gently with warm water or soap. When the skin is completely dried (about 30 minutes later) apply a thin film of Clindamycin lotion to the entire affected area twice daily. The Applied area should not be washed within 3 hours. Noticeable improvement is usually seen after about 6 weeks. However, 8 to 12 weeks of treatment may be required for maximum benefit. Eye, lip or nose contact should be avoided while applying Clindamycin lotion.

Interaction

Clindamycin enhances the action of other neuromuscular blocking agents. Therefore, it should be used with caution in patients receiving such agents. Antagonism has been demonstrated between clindamycin and erythromycin in vitro. Because of possible clinical significance, these two drugs should not be administered concurrently.

Side Effects

Side effects are usually rare. Possible side-effects may includes skin rash, itching, oily skin, dryness, erythema, burning, change in skin color, diarrhea, colitis, GI disturbance etc.

Pregnancy And Lactation

There is no adequate data for safe use in pregnancy. Animal studies showed no adverse effects on the fetus. It is not known that whether Clindamycin is excreted through breast milk following topical administration. However, Clindamycin lotion can be used during lactation with caution.

Precautions And Warnings

Clindamycin lotion is not for oral, ophthalmic, or Intravaginal use. Avoid exposure to sunlight and sunlamps. Wear sunscreen daily.

Overdose Effects

Intravaginal overdose is not possible. Accidental ingestion of the product could be accompanied by effects related to therapeutic levels of oral clindamycin.