Clindamycin

Description

Clindamycin is a lincosamide-class antibiotic that works by binding to the 50S

subunit of bacterial ribosomes, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis and preventing bacterial growth. It is effective against Propionibacterium acnes (now Cutibacterium acnes), the bacteria primarily responsible for acne. When applied topically, clindamycin reduces bacterial count, inflammation, and the formation of new acne lesions. It is used in the treatment of mild to moderate acne and other bacterial skin infections, helping to clear existing pimples and prevent future breakouts.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic used to treat acne.

Contraindications

When should one not use Clindamycin

If you are allergic to Clindamycin.
If you may have a digestive disorder, such as inflammation of the inner lining of the intestine (colitis), or a history of antibiotic-associated colitis.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Skin dryness
Irritation
Urge to scratch
Skin oiliness

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I use Clindamycin during pregnancy?

Use the Clindamycin only when prescribed by your doctor.

Breast Feeding

Can I use Clindamycin while breastfeeding?

Clindamycin needs to be applied to the skin and it is unlikely to pass into the breastmilk. It should not be applied to the breast or areas near the breast of breastfeeding mothers as there are chances of ingestion of the cream/lotion by a breastfed infant. Avoid using on areas of skin or for a prolonged period.

Driving

Can I drive if I have applied Clindamycin?

Clindamycin does not affect the driving ability. So, you may drive while using the medicine.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol during the treatment with Clindamycin?

There is no direct interaction between alcohol and Clindamycin. Please contact your doctor.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You are already using products to treat acne.
Avoid applying Clindamycin on the eyes, mouth and cuts or wounds on the skin, as caution should be exercised while applying medication around these areas.
You may have a genetic tendency to develop allergic diseases like rhinitis, asthma, etc., as caution is advised for such patients.
You may experience burning or irritation on the skin. The doctor may suggest discontinuing the treatment.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Clindamycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, which bacteria require for growth and function. It inhibits bacterial growth and prevents the infection from spreading.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Clindamycin is meant for local application on the skin and thus is less likely to interact with other medicines taken orally. It may interact with other topically applied medicines. Inform the doctor ...
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Inform the doctor about the medicines, supplements or herbals you are taking or might take to avoid possible interaction.

Dosage

Overdose

As the Clindamycin is meant for external application cases of an overdose are unlikely. However, upon accidental ingestion contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital. If you have ap...

Missed a Dose

If you have missed applying the Clindamycin, apply it as soon as possible. Do not overapply this medicine just to compensate for the missed dose.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Mansi Savla

B. Pharm, PharmD

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What precautions do I need to take before applying Clindamycin?

Do not use it for a longer duration than the doctor has suggested.
Avoid applying for medicine on windburned, sunburned skin or open wounds.
Do not use the medicine in or around the eye area, lips or inside of the nose.
Rub it gently and well.
Wash the hands after applying it.

Q: For how long do I need to apply Clindamycin?

Keep using Clindamycin for the full time of treatment, even if the symptoms begin to clear up after a short time.
If you stop using the medicine too soon, the acne may return or get worse.

Q: Can I put Clindamycin in the freezer?

A: Avoid freezing it, as it may alter its efficacy. Store Clindamycin at room temperature only.

Q: Can I apply Clindamycin in an excess amount for fast healing?

A: No, if you use Clindamycin more often than recommended or on large areas of the body, it causes you to develop severe side effects or allergic reactions.

References

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Last Updated on: 03 Nov 2025 | 09:07 AM (IST)

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Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.