Products
The fixed combination of the lincosamide antibiotic clindamycin and the retinoid tretinoin was approved in many countries in 2014 in the form of a gel (Acnatac). In other countries, it went on sale earlier, for example in the United States, where it has been available since 2006 (Ziana).
Structure and properties
Clindamycin is present in the drug as clindamycin phosphate, a white, slightly hygroscopic powder that is readily soluble in water. Tretinoin is present as a yellow to light orange crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water.
Effects
Clindamycin has bacteriostatic properties against propionibacteria. The effects are based on inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis. Tretinoin has comedolytic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Indications
For the external treatment of acne vulgaris.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The gel is applied once daily in the evening before bedtime.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include local reactions such as dry skin, skin redness, photosensitization, sunburn, and skin burning.
