Clindamycin FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Clindamycin

Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic treatment for acne. It is sometimes used on its own, but often combined with another topical treatment such as benzoyl peroxide.

The common trade name for clindamycin is Dalacin, and when combined with benzoyl peroxide it is sold as Duac, BenzaClin, Clindoxyl and Acanya. It is also sometimes combined with tretinoin and sold under the name Ziana.

Patients that are either currently using clindamycin, or are considering using it, often have questions about the way it works and about possible side effects. This is why we’ve put together this page with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about clindamycin.

Is Clindamycin Safe?

Yes, if used as directed by your doctor or dermatologist clindamycin is perfectly safe to use.

Is Clindamycin a Sulfa Drug?

No, clindamycin is not a sulfa drug and does not contain sulfa.

Is Clindamycin Safe During Pregnancy?

The safety of clindamycin during pregnancy has not been clearly established, and should be avoided unless deemed necessary.

Is Clindamycin Safe While Breastfeeding?

The safety of clindamycin while breastfeeding has not been clearly established, and should be avoided unless deemed necessary.

Is Clindamycin a Macrolide?

No, clindamycin is not a macrolide. It is, rather, a lincosamide.

Is Clindamycin a Cephalosporin?

No, clindamycin is not a cephalosporin.

Is Clindamycin Used For Sinus Infection?

Yes, clindamycin can be used to treat sinus infections.

Is Clindamycin an Antibiotic?

Yes, clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic used primarily for the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Is Clindamycin Related to Penicillin?

No, clindamycin is not related to the penicillin family of antibiotics.

Is Clindamycin Available Over-The-Counter?

Clindamycin is currently available only with a prescription.

Is Clindamycin Bactericidal or Bacteriostatic?

Clindamycin is bacteriostatic, which means it inhibits the growth of bacteria.

Is Clindamycin in the Erythromycin Family?

No, clindamycin is not related to erythromycin. Also, they should never be used together.

Is Clindamycin a Tetracycline?

No, clindamycin is not a tetracycline antibiotic.

Does Clindamycin Affect Birth Control?

Clindamycin, like any antibiotic, can decrease the effectiveness of some birth controls.

Does Clindamycin Cause Photosensitivity?

Yes, one of the possible side effects of clindamycin use is increase photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight).

Will Clindamycin Cause Weight Gain or Weight Loss?

No, clindamycin should not cause weight gain or weight loss.

Does Clindamycin Cause Yeast Infections?

Since antibiotics kill bacteria, sometimes they also kill some “good” bacteria and this can lead to an increased chance of developing a yeast infection.

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