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- Proactiv
- Accutane
- Retin-A
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- Antibiotics or Erythromycin
- Murad Acne Complex
- Clindamycin or Duac
- Tazorac
- Salicylic Acid
- Light Therapy
- Derma Cleanse by Zenmed
- Birth Control Pill
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Benefits and Risks of Clindamycin (Duac)
Clindamycin is a unique product in the world of acne treatment since it is an antibiotic that is not taken orally but applied directly to the skin in lotion form. Clindamycin is contained in products sold under the brand names Cleocin, BenzaClin, Duac and Clindagel, among others, and works by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of acne-causing bacteria.
Clindamycin is usually applied twice a day at morning and night. After washing your face with a mild cleanser and gently drying it, apply the clindamycin in a thin layer over the areas of skin affected by acne. According to the National Institutes of Health, the product can take up to 12 weeks to work, although some users will see results in a shorter period of time. NIH recommends flushing with plenty of water if you get any of the product in your eyes, mouth or broken skin.
The side effects of clindamycin are similar to the side effects that can be experienced with any topical product. Problems such as skin irritation, burning, itching or rashes can develop, particularly if you have sensitive skin. If a rash develops and persists, you should seek medical attention.
NIH and drug manufacturers have issued a warning that, in rare cases, clindamycin can cause colitis, an infection of the colon that is dangerous and possibly life-threatening if left untreated for a long period. Because clindamycin is absorbed into the skin, it presents a risk of colitis even though it is not taken orally.
If you notice gastrointestinal problems after taking clindamycin or within a few weeks of stopping your treatment regimen, talk to your doctor right away. Some of the symptoms may include severe and persistent diarrhea, bloody stool and severe stomach cramps.
Bear in mind that most people take clindamycin with no side effects and if your doctor feels it is safe for you, give it a try. Just remember that it is a serious drug and that you should be on the lookout for any symptoms of side effects so you can promptly discuss them with your doctor.
Clindamycin is usually applied twice a day at morning and night. After washing your face with a mild cleanser and gently drying it, apply the clindamycin in a thin layer over the areas of skin affected by acne. According to the National Institutes of Health, the product can take up to 12 weeks to work, although some users will see results in a shorter period of time. NIH recommends flushing with plenty of water if you get any of the product in your eyes, mouth or broken skin.
The side effects of clindamycin are similar to the side effects that can be experienced with any topical product. Problems such as skin irritation, burning, itching or rashes can develop, particularly if you have sensitive skin. If a rash develops and persists, you should seek medical attention.
NIH and drug manufacturers have issued a warning that, in rare cases, clindamycin can cause colitis, an infection of the colon that is dangerous and possibly life-threatening if left untreated for a long period. Because clindamycin is absorbed into the skin, it presents a risk of colitis even though it is not taken orally.
If you notice gastrointestinal problems after taking clindamycin or within a few weeks of stopping your treatment regimen, talk to your doctor right away. Some of the symptoms may include severe and persistent diarrhea, bloody stool and severe stomach cramps.
Bear in mind that most people take clindamycin with no side effects and if your doctor feels it is safe for you, give it a try. Just remember that it is a serious drug and that you should be on the lookout for any symptoms of side effects so you can promptly discuss them with your doctor.
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