Class: Lincosamide Antibiotic
Dosage Forms. Topical Foam: 1%; Topical Solution: 1%; Topical Gel: 1%; Topical Pad: 1%; Topical Lotion: 1%
Common FDA Label Indication, Dosing, and Titration.
1. Acne vulgaris: Topical solution, lotion, gel; apply thin film bid to affected areas
Off-Label Uses. None
MOA. Clindamycin is a semisynthetic 7-chloro-7-deoxylincomycin derivative that is active against most Gram-positive organisms except enterococci and Clostridium difficile. Gram-negative aerobes are resistant, but most anaerobes are sensitive. It inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit; it is bactericidal or bacteriostatic depending on the concentration, organism, and inoculums.
Drug Characteristics: Clindamycin
Medication Safety Issues: Clindamycin
Drug Interactions: Clindamycin. None known
Adverse Reactions: Clindamycin
Efficacy Monitoring Parameters. Resolution of acne lesions.
Toxicity Monitoring Parameters. Seek medical attention if blistering skin rash.
Key Patient Counseling Points. Wash and dry face prior to application. Use on skin only, avoid eyes and mucous membranes, avoid cut or broken skin. Shake well before use. Liquid is flammable; avoid smoking while applying or exposure to heat or open flame. For the foam, apply to tissue and use that to apply to face.
Clinical Pearls. May have increased sensitivity to sun; may use sunscreen but wait 1-2 h after applying clindamycin topical solution.