Before using topical clindamycin

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.

How to use topical clindamycin

• 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.

Getting the most from your treatment

• 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.

Can topical clindamycin cause problems?

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.

How to store clindamycin

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

Important information about all medicines

References

• Manufacturer's PIL, Dalacin® T Topical Solution/Topical Lotion, Pharmacia Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated January 2011.
• British National Formulary; 61st Edition (March 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)