From the Guidelines
Clindamycin topical is effective against Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species, including Propionibacterium acnes (now called Cutibacterium acnes), which contributes to acne formation. The medication works by binding to bacterial ribosomes, preventing protein synthesis and thereby inhibiting bacterial growth and reproduction 1.
Key Points
- Clindamycin topical is used to treat acne vulgaris and bacterial skin infections, with various formulations including gels, lotions, solutions, and foams, typically in concentrations of 1-2% 1.
- For acne treatment, it's usually applied once or twice daily to clean, dry skin for 6-12 weeks, while application frequency for bacterial skin infections depends on the specific condition being treated 1.
- Side effects may include skin dryness, redness, burning sensation, or peeling, and it's essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed to prevent antibiotic resistance and ensure effective treatment 1.
- Clindamycin is also effective against other susceptible skin bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, although resistance rates may vary 1.
Bacterial Coverage
- Clindamycin has been shown to be effective against a range of bacteria, including:
- Staphylococcus aureus (including some methicillin-resistant strains) 1
- Streptococcus pyogenes 1
- Propionibacterium acnes (now called Cutibacterium acnes) 1
Important Considerations
- The development of antibiotic resistance is a concern, and clindamycin should be used judiciously and in accordance with guidelines to minimize this risk 1.
- Patients should be monitored for signs of resistance or treatment failure, and alternative therapies should be considered if necessary 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ... Microbiology Clindamycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 23S RNA of the 50S subunit of the ribosome. Clindamycin is bacteriostatic Antimicrobial Activity Clindamycin is active in vitro against most isolates of Propionibacterium acnes;
- Clindamycin topical is effective against Propionibacterium acnes 2
From the Research
Bacteria Affected by Clindamycin
- Clindamycin is effective against gram-positive and anaerobic bacteria 3, 4
- Specifically, it has been shown to suppress the growth of propionibacterial species, including Propionibacterium acnes and P. granulosum 5
- Clindamycin has also been used to treat acne vulgaris caused by resistant strains of Propionibacterium acnes 6
Spectrum of Activity
- Clindamycin exhibits a narrow spectrum of microbiologic activity, primarily against gram-positive and anaerobic bacteria 3
- It is effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, but not against Escherichia coli or Candida albicans 7
Combination Therapies
- Clindamycin is often used in combination with other topical agents, such as benzoyl peroxide, to enhance its efficacy and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance 5, 6, 4
- Combination therapies, such as clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide gel, have been shown to be effective in reducing inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions in patients with acne vulgaris 6