About Clindamycin 1% Gel
Clindamycin 1% Gel contains Clindamycin 1%. This is an antibiotic gel applied to the skin to treat acne. It reduces the bacteria that play a part in acne and helps calm red, inflamed spots. Results build up over several weeks of regular use.
Uses of Clindamycin 1% Gel
- Acne (pimples) with red, inflamed spots
Benefits
In acne
It reduces acne bacteria and swelling, so there are fewer and less inflamed spots over time. It works best when used regularly as your doctor advises; it does not work overnight.
Side effects
Mild dryness and irritation are common at first. Talk to your doctor if they are severe or do not settle.
Common
- Dry skin
- Peeling
- Redness
- Itching or burning where applied
- Oily skin
Get medical help if you notice
- Severe or watery diarrhoea, or diarrhoea with blood or mucus, or stomach cramps (rare) — stop and contact your doctor
- Severe skin irritation, blistering or swelling — stop using it and see your doctor
- Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing — seek emergency care
How to use
Use it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Wash the area gently with a mild cleanser and pat dry. Apply a thin layer to the whole affected area, not just individual spots. Keep it away from the eyes, mouth, nostrils and broken skin. Wash your hands after use.
How it works
Clindamycin stops acne bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow. This reduces bacteria on the skin and the swelling they cause.
Safety advice
Alcohol Safe
No interaction is known.
Pregnancy Consult your doctor
Use only if your doctor advises it.
Breastfeeding Consult your doctor
Ask your doctor before using it. Do not apply it to the breast area.
Driving Safe
It is not expected to affect driving.
Kidney Safe
No special precautions are known for use on the skin.
Liver Safe
No special precautions are known for use on the skin.
If you miss a dose
If you miss an application, apply it when you remember. If it is nearly time for the next one, skip the missed one. Do not apply extra.
Quick tips
- It may take several weeks to see improvement — keep using it as advised.
- Use an oil-free moisturiser if your skin becomes dry.
- Do not use other acne products on the same area unless your doctor says so, as this can increase irritation.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever had bowel inflammation (colitis) after antibiotics.
Substitutes
Same salts in the same strength from other makers. Only switch brands on your doctor's or pharmacist's advice; our pharmacist checks every order against the prescription.
Fact box
- Chemical class
- Lincosamide
- Therapeutic class
- Dermatology / anti-infective
- Action class
- Topical antibiotic (protein synthesis inhibitor)
- Habit forming
- No
- Prescription
- Required
Interactions with other medicines
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin and herbal product you take.
| Medicine | What can happen |
|---|---|
| Erythromycin applied to the skin | May reduce the effect of clindamycin |
| Other acne products (such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids) or harsh soaps | Can increase dryness and irritation; use only as your doctor advises |
This page is general information to help you understand your medicine. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop or change a medicine on your own.
Written by the Asthra Health Care team from the approved prescribing information (Clindamycin phosphate topical gel prescribing information (CDSCO-approved labelling); NICE BNF: clindamycin (topical)). Pharmacist review pending.