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Home > Drug Category > Skin Medications (Topical/Oral) > Clindagel and Equivalent

Clindagel Information

Clindagel (clindamycin phosphate gel) is a widely used topical antibiotic for the treatment of acne vulgaris. It is a prescription-only medication that belongs to the lincosamide class of antibiotics. The primary active ingredient, clindamycin, works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. This is achieved by clindamycin binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria. By doing so, it effectively interferes with the process of peptide chain initiation, which is a crucial step in the production of essential bacterial proteins. This action prevents the bacteria from growing and multiplying. While the exact therapeutic mechanism for treating acne is not fully understood, it is well established that Clindagel is highly effective against Cutibacterium acnes, a bacterium strongly associated with the development of acne lesions. Clindamycin phosphate, the form of the drug in the gel, is a prodrug. Upon application to the skin, it is rapidly converted into its active form, clindamycin, which then begins its therapeutic action. This conversion ensures that the medication is active at the site of infection, where it is most needed. The formulation as a gel enables easy and uniform application to the skin.

Clindagel Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with the use of Clindagel are typically confined to the application site. They are a result of its topical nature. Patients may experience dryness, erythema (redness), a burning sensation, itching, peeling, or an increase in the oiliness of the skin. You may also experience headaches or upper respiratory tract infections. These effects are generally mild and often diminish as the patient's skin adjusts to the medication. However, it is crucial to be aware of more severe and potentially life-threatening side effects that can occur, although they are rare. If you experience any of the following serious side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately:
• Gastrointestinal effects: The most significant and potentially fatal side effect is severe colitis, including pseudomembranous colitis. This is a serious condition characterized by inflammation of the colon. Symptoms can include persistent diarrhea, severe diarrhea, or bloody diarrhea. They can begin during or up to several weeks after therapy is discontinued. If you develop significant or bloody diarrhea, you must stop using the medication and seek immediate medical attention.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Severe allergic reactions are a possibility, though they are rare. Symptoms may include a widespread rash, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. If you experience any of these signs, discontinue use and seek emergency medical attention.
• Other side effects: Other reported, though less common, side effects include abdominal pain, other general gastrointestinal disturbances, and the development of gram-negative folliculitis.

Clindagel Precautions

Before using Clindagel, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider of any pre-existing medical conditions or allergies you may have. You should not use Clindagel if you have a history of hypersensitivity to clindamycin or lincomycin, or if you have a history of regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis. This medication is for external use only. It is imperative to avoid contact with sensitive areas such as the eyes, mouth, lips, or other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, the area should be rinsed immediately and thoroughly with a large amount of cool tap water. Use Clindagel with caution when treating individuals with a history of atopic dermatitis, as their skin may be more susceptible to irritation.

You must inform your doctor about all your current medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and any herbal supplements or vitamins you are taking. Clindamycin has been shown to possess neuromuscular blocking properties and, therefore, may enhance the effects of other neuromuscular blocking agents. It should be used with caution in patients who are receiving these types of medications. Additionally, cross-resistance between clindamycin and erythromycin has been demonstrated, which means that using one of these antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of the other.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should discuss this with your doctor before starting treatment. Clindagel is classified as Pregnancy Category B. While animal studies have not shown evidence of harm to the fetus, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, it should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. It is also unknown whether topical clindamycin is excreted into human milk. However, clindamycin administered orally or parenterally has been reported to appear in breast milk. Due to the potential for severe adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision must be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into consideration the importance of the drug to the mother.

To ensure the best results and safety, use your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. A thin film of Clindagel should be applied to the affected areas once daily. After use, it is essential to keep the container tightly closed and store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. As with all medications, keep Clindagel out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Clindagel?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Clindagel.