What is Cleocin T Lotion (Clindamycin) prescribed for?

Acne is very common, and nearly everyone has had a pimple outbreak at least once in their life. It begins when the skin’s oil glands plug the pores. Larger openings that become clogged become blackheads, while smaller openings, when clogged, become pimples. At times the skin can become inflamed, tender, and sometimes infected.

And while acne remains at large a curse among the adolescence, it is know about 20% of acne occurs within adults as well.

This medication is used to treat acne, which is the main reason behind pimples. Cleocin will help decrease the number of lesions.  Clindamycin, the active ingredient within Cleocin T Lotion, is antibiotic which works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

This medication comes in the singular dose, which is 1%. Remember your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.

Use this medication on the skin only.  Before use, clean and dry the affected area.  Before using the lotion make sure to shake the bottle well.  Then apply a thin layer of the medicated lotion onto the affected area. This is usually done twice a day or as directed by you doctor.

After applying the medicine, make sure to wash your hands. Avoid getting the gel in the eyes, nose, and mouth. If you accidently do, flush the area out with water.

It may take between 2 to 6 weeks before you see any of the results, and up to 12 weeks before you gain the full benefit from this medication.

Before taking this medication, advise your doctor if you are allergic to Clindamycin, or to lincomycin; or if you have any other allergies.

Do not use if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated.

Speak with your doctor of your medical history before taking this medication, especially if you have had any of the following; chronic asthma or hay fever (atopic conditions), intestinal diseases (such as ulcerative colitis, enteritis, Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea).

Burning, itching, dryness, redness, oily skin or skin peeling may occur when this medication is first applied to the skin. These effects should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.

A small amount of this medication may be absorbed into your bloodstream and may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea) due to a resistant bacteria. This condition may occur while receiving treatment or even weeks to months after treatment has stopped. Do not use anti-diarrhea or opioid medications if you have the following symptoms because these products may make them worse. Tell your doctor right away if you develop persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, or blood/mucus in your stool.

What is Clindamycin used for?

Clindamycin, also known as Cleocin T lotion, is used mainly for the treatment of acne but may also be prescribed as an alternative to treat acne rosacea.  Clindamycin is an antibiotic, which are drugs effective against bacteria; acne is commonly a result of bacteria. Human skin has pores connected to oil glands located under the skin by follicles, which are small sacs that produce and secrete liquid. Sebum, an oily liquid produced by the glands, carries dead skin cells to the surface of the skin through the follicles. Small hairs then grow through the follicle and out of the skin. Acne occurs when these follicles get blocked and oil gets trapped under the skin, creating a buildup. From there, skin cells, sebum, and hair can clump together, forming a plug. This plug then gets infected with bacteria and acne occurs. Rosacea has a similar appearance to acne; small, red, pus-filled bumps. These may flare up for weeks to months along with redness and visible blood vessels on the face, usually the cheeks and nose.

What does Clindamycin do?

Depending on a few factors, the medication can either stop the growth of the bacteria or completely kill it. Clindamycin does this by inhibiting the bacterial protein synthesis which prevents them from producing the protein needed for cell growth. This subsequently prevents further growth of the bacteria and in some cases, kills it. This helps decrease the number of acne lesions on the face and may help with redness and swelling.

How long does it take Clindamycin to work?

Clindamycin may take a different amount of time for each patient due to many personal factors, such as the severity of your condition. Clindamycin will begin to work right away but it may take some time before improvement is seen. It could take 2-6 weeks (14- 46 days or; 0.5-1.5 months) before you notice an improvement and may take up to 12 weeks (84 days or; 2.8 months) for the full clinical benefit. If after a few weeks you do not feel there has been any improvement, you may want to speak with your doctor.

What class of drug is Clindamycin?

Clindamycin belongs to the drug class of lincosamides antibiotics. There are many different classes of antibiotics; each class contains antibiotics that work similarly. Some examples of different antibiotics include penicillins, tetracyclines, quinolones, macrolides, and sulfonamides.  Additionally, different types of antibiotics work against certain types of bacteria. Lincosamides antibiotics, like Clindamycin, are often used as an alternative antibiotic for those who are allergic to penicillin.