Clindamycin Gel

• Type: Topical antibiotic (from the lincosamide class)

• Main Use: Treats acne and other bacterial skin infections.

How It Works

• Clindamycin stops bacteria from making proteins they need to grow and multiply.

• This helps reduce the number of Propionibacterium acnes (now called Cutibacterium acnes), the bacteria involved in acne.

• By lowering bacteria and inflammation, it helps reduce pimples, redness, and swelling.

Forms Available

• Gel (most common)

• Also available as lotion, solution, foam — but gel is preferred for oily or acne-prone skin.

Common Uses

• Acne vulgaris – especially inflammatory acne (red pimples, pustules)

• Sometimes combined with benzoyl peroxide to improve results and reduce antibiotic resistance

• Can also be used for mild bacterial skin infections (less common)

Advantages

• Works directly on the skin where acne forms

• Less risk of systemic (whole-body) side effects compared to oral antibiotics

• Usually well tolerated

Possible Side Effects

• Dryness, redness, or peeling of the skin

• Mild burning or itching where applied

• Rarely, diarrhea or colitis (if enough drug is absorbed — very uncommon with topical use)

Precautions

• Apply only to affected areas as directed (usually once or twice daily)

• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or broken skin

• Use consistently for several weeks to see best results

• To prevent resistance, it’s often combined with another acne treatment (like benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid)