Clindamycin Top

Uses This medication is used to treat acne. It helps to decrease the number of acne lesions. Clindamycin is an antibiotic which works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

How to use Clindamycin Top Use this medication only on the skin. Clean and dry the affected area first. If you are using the lotion, shake the bottle well before using. Apply a thin layer of medication usually twice a day or as directed by your doctor. If you are using the medicated pad, wipe the affected area gently with it, then discard. Depending on the size of the area to be treated, more than one pad may be necessary. If you are using the foam, apply it once daily to the affected areas. Use enough to cover the entire affected area. Do not spray the foam directly onto your hands or face, because the foam will begin to melt on contact with warm skin. Instead spray the amount needed directly into the cap or onto a cool surface such as a countertop. If the can seems warm or the foam seems runny, run the can under cold water. Please read the patient information leaflet available from your pharmacist for specific instructions on how to use the foam, and ask about any information that is unclear. Wash your hands after use. Avoid contact with your eyes, nose, mouth or any areas of broken skin. If you accidentally get medication in these areas, rinse well with plenty of cool water. It may take between 2-6 weeks to notice an improvement in your condition, and up to 12 weeks to see the full benefit. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.

Before using clindamycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to lincomycin; or if you have any other allergies.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: chronic asthma or hay fever (atopic conditions), intestinal diseases (e.g., ulcerative colitis, enteritis).
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known if the medication in this product passes into breast milk. While there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Overdose If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center 1-800-222-1222 (USA) or emergency room immediately. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medication may be harmful if swallowed.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store the US product at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) Store the Canadian product at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C). Store the medication away from light and moisture. Keep containers tightly closed. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Burning, itching, dryness, redness, oily skin or skin peeling may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A small amount of this medication may be absorbed into your bloodstream and may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (pseudomembranous colitis) due to a resistant bacteria. This condition may occur while receiving treatment or even weeks after treatment has stopped. Do not use anti-diarrhea products or narcotic pain medications if you have the following symptoms because these products may make them worse. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, or blood/mucus in your stool.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use.
Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.