Drug Title

Cleocin Gel (Clindamycin)

Drug Uses

Cleocin Gel is used for the treatment of severe acne. However, it may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How it is taken

The best way to use the cream is as recommended by your doctor. However, you can also clean the affected area and then apply a thin film of the medication on it. Now gently rub it in until it is spread evenly. Use it at the same time each day and use it for the complete course of treatment.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Cleocin Gel is a topical lincomycin antibiotic that kills the sensitive bacteria that cause acne and a buildup of free fatty acids on the skin surface.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Cleocin Gel then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Safety Information

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, gastrointestinal (bowel) disease or diarrhea.

Cleocin Gel may cause harm if it is swallowed. You must contact the nearest poison control center immediately.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or to lincomycin, have Crohn disease, antibiotic-associated colitis, or ulcerative colitis.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using and contact your doctor immediately.

It is unknown whether is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Certain drugs can interact with Cleocin Gel and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking especially any of the following.

Long term use of Cleocin Gel can lead to a second infection. Inform your doctor if this occurs as your medication may need to be changed.

Cleocin Gel should not be used in children under 12 years of age as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

Some patients develop stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools while using Cleocin. Contact your doctor promptly if this occurs.

Nondepolarizing muscle relaxants (eg,vecuronium) or succinylcholine & Erythromycin.

These are not the only side effects that may occur. You may contact your health care provider for more info.

Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are abdominal/stomach pain, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, unusual tiredness. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); blood or mucus in stools; bloody or severe diarrhea; stomach cramps or pain; swelling, redness, burning, or peeling of your skin.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.