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Drug Search

DRUGS A-Z

Find information on drug interactions, side effects, and more.

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What is this medicine?

CLINDAMYCIN (KLIN da MYE sin) is a lincosamide antibiotic. It is used on the skin to stop the growth of certain bacteria that cause acne.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

diarrhea
inflammatory bowel disease
kidney or liver disease
stomach problems like colitis
an unusual or allergic reaction to clindamycin, lincomycin, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Wash hands before and after use. Wash affected area and gently pat dry. Apply a thin layer of this medicine to the affected area as often as prescribed by your doctor or health care professional. Do not use skin products near the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you do get any in your eyes rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this medicine may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

medicated cosmetics, including coverup preparations
other acne products including benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or tretinoin
skin care products that have a high alcohol content (some shaving creams, lotions, or after shave lotion)
some skin cleansers or medicated soaps

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your acne should start to get better within about 6 weeks. Complete improvement may take longer. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you do not see any improvement.

Your skin may get very dry and scale or peel. Let your doctor or health care professional know if this happens. Do not use any soothing cream or ointment without advice.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
diarrhea that is watery or severe
pain on swallowing
stomach pain or cramps
unusual bleeding or bruising

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

dry skin
nausea, vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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