Clindamycin and Adapalene Gel

Clindamycin and Adapalene gel is a tropical combination medication used for the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris (pimples). It is the combination of Clindamycin (antibiotic) and Adapalene, 3rd generation retinoid (human-made vitamin A) that regulates skin cell growth. Clindamycin & Adapalene Gel is the potent tropical combination therapy that acts on all 4 causes of acne i.e. clogged pores, excess skin oil production, bacteria, and inflammation (redness and swelling).

Acne vulgaris (Pimple) is a common skin disorder in which pores of the skin block & produce blackheads, whiteheads & other types of pus-filled pimples & sometimes painful pimples. Acne vulgaris consists of non-inflammatory and mild inflammatory lesions, characterized by the presence of nodules in severe acne. 

Aim of treatment of acne 

• To reduce inflammation & infection 
• To reduce skin lesions 
• To reduce hyperproliferation and hyperkeratinization 
• To prevent permanent scarring 

 

Treatment Options for acne vulgaris

Current 1st line treatment for mild to moderate acne (pimple) is tropical combination medication i.e Tropical antibiotic & Retinoids or Benzoyl peroxide & Antibiotic or a combination of all 3 i.e. Tropical antibiotic, Retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide. 

Drugs of choice or gold standard treatment for mild to moderate acne vulgaris is Tropical retinoid which is used in combination with antibiotics to increase its effectiveness. 

Commonly used medication for mild to moderate acne vulgaris (pimple) is Clindamycin and Adapalene gel. Clindamycin is the antibiotic and Adapalene is the 3rd generation retinoid, human-made Vitamin A.  

Isotretinoin is also a retinoid that is used for the treatment of deep, painful, severe acne cysts and nodules or when other treatment fails. It has a teratogenic effect and plenty of other side effects, so it is not commonly used. It is only used for severe acne.   

 

How does Clindamycin & Adapalene gel work for the treatment of acne (Pimple)?

Clindamycin is a bacterial protein synthesis inhibitors antibiotic used to kill acne-causing bacteria & prevent the growth & multiplication of acne-causing bacteria to limit the spread of acne. Clindamycin also helps to decrease swelling & inflammatory processes when the acne breakout occurs. 

Acne vulgaris is a skin disorder of the pilosebaceous gland in which there is increased sebum (skin natural oil) production, blockage of pores, inflammation, and hyperproliferation & hyperkeratinization of the follicular infundibulum.

Adapalene is the 3rd generation topical retinoid, a form of vitamin A, an FDA-approved drug for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Adapalene is anti-comedogenic which unblocks the pore & prevents the accumulation of sebum (skin’s oil) and allows natural exfoliation of outer skin layers over acne. Adapalene inhibits the proliferation & differentiation of keratocyte  & decrease keratin deposition. Thus adapalene prevents the formation of new comedones (anti-comedogenic) & treats the already-formed comedones (comedolytic).  

Adapalene has anti-comedogenic, comedolytic & anti-inflammatory properties. It has all 3 properties needed for the treatment of acne. 

Clindamycin & Adapalene Gel is Most effective for mild to moderate acne because 

• It reduces noninflammatory, inflammatory lesions 
• It is Comedolytic & Anti-comedogenic
• Has Anti-inflammatory properties

 

Effectiveness of Clindamycin & Adapalene gel over benzoyl peroxide 

Previously, benzoyl peroxide & clindamycin are used for the treatment of mild to moderate acne (pimples). But recent different studies show that Adapalene is as effective as benzoyl peroxide plus adapalene is comparatively better tolerated than benzoyl peroxide & clindamycin combination. 

 

Clindamycin & Adapalene Gel Composition and Active Ingredients 

Clindamycin & Adapalene Gel is composed of the primary two active ingredients.

• Adapalene (0.1%) 
• Clindamycin (1%) 

Please note that different various strengths for each active ingredient are available.  

 

What are the side effects of clindamycin and adapalene gel? 

The common side effects of Clindamycin and Adapalene gel are Skin irritation, Burning sensation, itching, Dry skin, Erythema (skin redness), and Sunburn at the site of application of Clindamycin & Adapalene gel. But these side effects occur in a small number of people. These side effects are mild & temporary and do not require medical attention and gradually disappear over time. It is usually safe for adult use. 

If you notice any unexpected adverse effects, immediately consult the doctor. 

 

How long does clindamycin and adapalene gel take to work? 

In the initial weeks of using clindamycin and adapalene gel, you may notice a temporary worsening of your acne. This is actually a sign that the medication is actively addressing pimples that are developing beneath the surface of your skin. Clindamycin and adapalene gel typically take about 8 to 12 weeks to observe noticeable improvements from this treatment. 

 

How to use clindamycin and adapalene gel?

Before applying clindamycin and adapalene gel, thoroughly wash the affected areas with water and soap & dry the area. Then apply the gel lightly, covering enough of the entire affected area including the periphery.  This will help prevent the spread of new pimples. During the initial weeks of use of clindamycin and adapalene gel, possible exacerbation of acne may occur. But one should not discontinue the use of this gel. After 8 to 12 weeks of application of clindamycin and adapalene gel,  therapeutic results are usually seen. 

 

Precautions & Warnings to keep in mind during application of clindamycin and adapalene gel 

• Wash your hands with soap & water after the application of clindamycin and adapalene gel 
• Avoid the use of clindamycin and adapalene gel around & over the eyes, nose, mouth, or any areas of broken skin.  
• Avoid exposure to sun after the use of clindamycin and adapalene gel or use sunscreen and use protective clothing to prevent sunburn. 
• Avoid using Clindamycin & Adapalene Gel for a longer duration than recommended. 

 

What is the best time to use clindamycin and adapalene gel? 

Clindamycin and adapalene gel contain adapalene which is a chemically stable retinoid but photosensitive; increases skin sensitivity to the sun. Thus it is best to use clindamycin and adapalene gel at night, before bed. 

To prevent sunburn due to the application of clindamycin and adapalene gel, one is advised to use sunscreen and possibly limit sun exposure and wear adequate protective cloths over the area where the gel is applied. 

 

How often is clindamycin and adapalene gel used in a day? 

Clindamycin and adapalene gel is applied once daily usually at night. 

 

Contraindications of clindamycin and adapalene gel? 

• Not be used in children below 12 years
• Hypersensitivity: Allergic to Vitamin A-related products 
• Pregnancy 

Always consult the doctor before using clindamycin and adapalene gel if you have a history of being allergic to vitamin A-related products, during pregnancy. 

 

Can Clindamycin and adapalene gel be used as a spot treatment (for a single pimple)? 

Clindamycin and adapalene gel is basically not used as a spot treatment for the treatment of single pimple.  You should apply the gel to the entire affected area & should be used every day for better results. 

 

What is the first-line drug for acne vulgaris? 

First-line treatment for mild to moderate acne vulgaris is Tropical combination therapy which includes topical retinoids with antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide with antibiotics or a combination of all 3 drugs.  

Topical retinoid with antibiotics is available as Clindamycin and adapalene gel. 

 

In which forms are Clindamycin and adapalene gel available? 

Clindamycin and adapalene gel is available as a gel (mainly), ointment, gel, nano-gel, and soap. 

 

Do Clindamycin and adapalene gel remove Pimple marks (Scars) caused by acne? 

Yes, Clindamycin and adapalene gel can help to reduce the scars after the acne has resolved and improve skin texture. 

 

Can I use clindamycin and adapalene gel together? 

The combination of Clindamycin and Adapalene Gel is effective and safe in the treatment of acne vulgaris, compared to clindamycin gel alone and adapalene gel alone. Nowadays, a combination of clindamycin and adapalene is available as a single gel in the market as clindamycin and adapalene gel and only need to be used once a day. 

 

What is clindamycin and adapalene gel used for? 

Clindamycin & Adapalene Gel is used for the treatment, control, & improvement of acne vulgaris (pimple), Acne over the body, black head & spots. 

 

Can I apply clindamycin and adapalene gel all over my face? 

Avoid using clindamycin and adapalene gel in or around the eyes, lips, inside of the nose, or any skin break & wound. Apply the gel away from these areas. If you accidentally apply clindamycin and adapalene gel on these areas, wash them with water immediately. 

 

Can I leave clindamycin and adapalene gel overnight? 

Yes, Adapalene increases your skin's sensitivity to sunlight more than usual. Therefore, it is best to apply it at night and wash it off in the morning. 

 

Which cream is best for acne vulgaris? 

Clindamycin & Adapalene Gel is best for acne vulgaris. But you can also look for a Benzoyl peroxide combination. It Reduces noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total lesions on the face of patients. It is Comedolytic & Anti-comedogenic and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is usually available as a cream or gel. It is used once a day, daily. 

 

Is clindamycin treatment for acne vulgaris? 

Topical clindamycin alone cannot cure acne as acne is not basically an infection. However, it helps to keep the acne under control and provides relief from deep, painful breakouts. It helps to reduce the amount of bacteria in and around the acne and lessen inflammation.