Clindamycin

Clindamycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunits of susceptible bacteria and prevents elongation of peptide chains by interfering with peptidyl transfer, thereby suppressing bacterial protein synthesis. Clindamycin has been shown to have in vitro activity against Propionibacterium acnes, an organism which has been associated with acne vulgaris; however, the clinical significance of this activity against P. acnes was not examined in clinical trials with Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% and Tretinoin 0.025% Gel. P. acnes resistance to clindamycin has been documented. Resistance to clindamycin is often associated with resistance to erythromycin.

Tretinoin

Although the exact mode of action of tretinoin is unknown, current evidence suggests that topical tretinoin decreases cohesiveness of follicular epithelial cells with decreased microcomedo formation. Additionally, tretinoin stimulates mitotic activity and increased turnover of follicular epithelial cells causing extrusion of the comedones.

Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% and Tretinoin 0.025% Gel is a lincosamide antibiotic and retinoid combination product indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in patients 12 years or older.

• Apply a pea-sized amount to the entire face once daily at bedtime. Do not apply to eyes, mouth, angles of the nose, or mucous membranes. 
• Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% and Tretinoin 0.025% Gel is not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use.

Observed local adverse reactions in patients treated with Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% and Tretinoin 0.025% Gel were skin erythema, scaling, itching, burning, and stinging. Other most commonly reported adverse events (≥1% in patients treated with Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% and Tretinoin 0.025% Gel) were nasopharyngitis, pharyngolaryngeal pain, dry skin, cough, and sinusitis. 

Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% and Tretinoin 0.025% Gel is contraindicated in patients with regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or history of antibiotic-associated colitis.

• Colitis: Clindamycin can cause severe colitis, which may result in death. Diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, and colitis (including pseudomembranous colitis) have been reported with the use of clindamycin. Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% and Tretinoin 0.025% Gelshould be discontinued if significant diarrhea occurs.
• Ultraviolet Light and Environmental Exposures: Avoid exposure to sunlight and sunlamps. Wear sunscreen daily.