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Let's learn about Clindamycin, a medicine used for acne? (Clindamycin Topical Lotion)

MBBS
Medically Reviewed by MBBS ✓ Medically Reviewed
📅 Updated: Jul 14, 2026 • ⏱ 7 min read • Editorial policy
Let's learn about Clindamycin, a medicine used for acne? (Clindamycin Topical Lotion)
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Acne is a big problem for many people, especially young people, isn't it? Sometimes it can be very distressing. So, did your doctor prescribe you a topical medication for acne? Is that medication called Clindamycin? So, today we'll talk in detail about this medication and the things you need to be careful about when using it.

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What is this Clindamycin?

Simply put, Clindamycin is a type of antibiotic . It usually comes in the form of a lotion. It works by killing the bacteria that cause acne on your skin, or by stopping them from growing. When the bacteria are controlled in this way, your acne will reduce and your skin will start to clear up. The medicine your doctor gives you may come under a different brand name, but the main ingredient in it is likely to be Clindamycin.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using the medicine

It is very important to clearly explain these facts to your doctor before prescribing this medication. This will help him decide whether this medication is right for you or not.

  • Allergies: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to Clindamycin or any other medicine, food, or dye.
  • Bowel disease: If you have an inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, you should tell your doctor about it.
  • Other skin conditions: If your skin is very sensitive, has burns, or has large areas of skin that are damaged, tell us about it.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is important to inform your doctor before using this medicine.

How exactly do you use this?

To get the most out of a medication, it is very important to use it correctly.

This medicine is for external use only . Do not take it by mouth for any reason.

1. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.

2. Apply thinly: Apply a thin layer of the medicine only to the area where you want to apply it (the area with the acne). There is no need to apply it too thickly.

3. Be careful with your eyes: Do not let the medicine get into your eyes, inside your nose, or inside your mouth. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water.

4. Use it at the prescribed frequency:Use it only as often as your doctor tells you to. Don't go to the doctor frequently to get well soon.

5. Don't stop: Keep using the medicine until your doctor tells you to stop. It may not be a good idea to stop suddenly when your acne has subsided.

What if it is used for children?

This medicine is sometimes prescribed for children over 12 years of age. But it should only be used on medical advice. So if you are using this medicine for your child, follow the doctor's instructions exactly.

Side effects and things to be aware of

Like all medications, some people may experience minor side effects. But there's nothing to worry about. The important thing is to be aware.

Type of side effect Description
Things to report to your doctor immediately
Allergic Reactions Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
Severe diarrhea Severe, especially if the stomach is watery and accompanied by fever.
Things that are usually nothing to worry about, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist
Minor skin changes The skin may become slightly red, feel dry, or have a slight burning sensation where the medicine is applied.

Remember this in particular: If you have a stomachache for more than two days, especially if it's severe, don't just take over-the-counter medicine, but call your doctor immediately.

A few other important points

  • If you forget to take your medicine: If you forget to take your medicine at the scheduled time, skip it. Take your next dose as usual. Do not take more than two doses to make up for a missed dose.
  • In case of overdose: If someone accidentally takes this medicine, or if you think they have taken too much, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
  • Other cosmetics: Do not apply any other skin products (e.g. other creams, lotions) to the same area of ​​skin where you are applying Clindamycin without first consulting your doctor.
  • Patience: It may take a while, maybe a few weeks, for this medicine to show results. So be patient and continue using it. And go for follow-ups as your doctor tells you.

How do you store and dispose of the medicine?

  • Storage: Keep the medicine bottle out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not freeze. This is a flammable liquid, so keep it away from open flames, heat sources (e.g., near stoves), and smokers.
  • Disposal: If you need to get rid of expired or unused medications, the best thing to do is to donate them to a medication take-back program. Ask your doctor about this. If that's not possible, remove the medication from the bottle, mix it with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, and put it in a sealable bag before throwing it in the trash. Never flush it down the toilet.

💡 Take-Home Message

  • Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic used to treat acne.
  • Before using this medicine, inform your doctor about your allergies and other medical conditions (especially intestinal diseases).
  • Do not apply the medicine to your eyes. Apply only the amount your doctor tells you to, thinly, and only to the area that is affected.
  • Although skin redness or dryness is normal, seek medical advice immediately if you experience allergic symptoms such as severe diarrhea or swelling of the face/lips.
  • This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with others.
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What if it is used for children?

This medicine is sometimes prescribed for children over 12 years of age. But it should only be used on medical advice. So if you are using this medicine for your child, follow the doctor's instructions exactly.

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⚠️ Important: Medical articles and information on Nirogi Lanka are strictly for educational and awareness purposes and do not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified physician for any medical concerns.