3. Clindamycin (topical)

Clindamycin (topical)

  • Topical clindamycin is used to treat acne (spots).
  • The most common side-effect is mild skin irritation.
Type of medicine Antibiotic for topical use
Used for Acne
Also called Dalacin® T
Zindaclin®
Duac® Once Daily (clindamycin with benzoyl peroxide)
Available as Solution, lotion and gel

When clindamycin is applied to the skin in acne, it works by killing the bacteria which are contributing to the acne.

Clindamycin is also used to treat bone and joint infections, and for vaginal infections. There are two separate information leaflets available for these called Clindamycin and Clindamycin (vaginal) respectively.

Before using clindamycin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
  • If you have ever had severe diarrhoea after taking any antibiotic.
  • If you have an inflammatory bowel disorder (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis).
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
  • Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
  • Use this preparation exactly as your doctor has told you to. It is for external use only.
  • The label on your container will tell you how many times a day to use the preparation you have been given. Some clindamycin preparations are used once each day, others are used twice a day.
  • Take care to keep this preparation away from your eyes and mouth.
  • Some clindamycin topical preparations contain alcohol which can cause stinging if it gets into cuts or grazes on the skin.
  • Do not wash more than normal and do not scrub hard when washing acne-affected skin. Washing twice a day is normal for most people. Use a mild soap and lukewarm water. (Very hot or cold water may worsen acne.)
  • Do not pick or squeeze spots because this can cause further inflammation and scarring.
  • Diet is not thought to affect acne, however if you do notice that certain foods make your spots worse, then it may be best to avoid them.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects What can I do if I experience this
Skin dryness or irritation As your skin gets used to the preparation, this should improve

Important: If you develop diarrhoea, ask your pharmacist or doctor for further advice before applying any more of the preparation.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

  • Make sure that the person prescribing this preparation knows about any other medicines that you are taking or using. This includes medicines you buy, herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to use alongside this preparation.
  • If you are having an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • This preparation is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
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Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 62nd Edition (Sep 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Dalacin® T Topical Solution/Topical Lotion; Manufacturer's PIL, Dalacin® T Topical Solution/Topical Lotion, Pharmacia Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated January 2011.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 20/04/2011 Document ID: 3433  Version: 24 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.