Drug Class Description

Generic Name

Drug Description

Presentation

Indications

Adult Dosage

Apply a thin film of Dalacin T Topical Lotion twice daily to the affected area.

Contra Indications

Topical clindamycin is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to clindamycin or lincomycin. Clindamycin topical is contraindicated in individuals with a history of inflammatory bowel disease or a history of antibiotic-associated colitis

Special Precautions

Oral and parenteral clindamycin, as well as most other antibiotics, have been associated with severe pseudomembranous colitis. However, post-marketing studies have indicated a very low incidence of colitis with Dalacin T Solution. The physician should, nonetheless, be alert to the development of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea or colitis. If diarrhoea occurs, the product should be discontinued immediately.

Diarrhea, colitis, and pseudomembranous colitis have been observed to begin up to several weeks following cessation of oral and parenteral therapy with clindamycin.

Studies indicate a toxin(s) produced by Clostridium difficile is the major cause of antibiotic-associated colitis. Colitis is usually characterized by persistent, severe diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. Endoscopic examination may reveal pseudomembranous colitis. Stool culture for C. difficile and/or assay for C. difficile toxin may be helpful to diagnosis.

Vancomycin is effective in the treatment of antibiotic-associated colitis produced by C. difficile. The usual dose is 125 - 500 mg orally every 6 hours for 7 - 10 days. Additional supportive medical care may be necessary.

Mild cases of colitis may respond to discontinuance of clindamycin alone. Colestyramine and colestipol resins have been shown to bind C. difficile toxin in vitro, and cholestyramine has been effective in the treatment of some mild cases of antibiotic-associated colitis. Colestyramine resins have been shown to bind vancomycin; therefore, when both colestyramine and vancomycin are used concurrently, their administration should be separated by at least two hours.

The lotion has an unpleasant taste and caution should be exercised when applying medication around the mouth.

Topical clindamycin should be prescribed with caution to atopic individuals.

Interactions

Clindamycin has been shown to have neuromuscular blocking properties that may enhance the action of other neuromuscular blocking agents. Therefore, it should be used with caution in patients receiving such agents.

Adverse Reactions

Skin dryness is the most common adverse reaction seen with the solution. In addition, the following adverse effects have been reported with the use of topical clindamycin.

Eye disorders: stinging of the eye

Gastrointestinal disorders: abdominal pain, gastrointestinal disturbances

Infections and infestations: gram-negative folliculitis

Skin and subcutaneous skin disorders: skin irritation, contact dermatitis, skin oiliness, urticaria.

Manufacturer

Drug Availability

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