Clindamycin Topical

What is clindamycin topical?

Clindamycin topical (brand name ClinzGard®, others) is an antimicrobial used to treat bacterial skin infections, acne, anal sac abscesses, and other wounds in cats and dogs.

Its use may be off label (extra label) depending on the product formulation, species, and condition(s) being treated. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet clindamycin topical?

Clindamycin topical comes in topical gel, lotion, ointment, and spray forms. 

• All forms are applied topically directly to the skin.
• Clean the affected area as directed by your veterinarian before applying the medication.
• Do not allow pets to groom or lick application site.
• Wear gloves while applying and wash your hands after application. Avoid contact with eyes.
• Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.

This medication should start working within 24 hours, but its effects may not be noticeable for a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from clindamycin topical?

Clindamycin topical may cause the following side effects:

• redness, irritation, drying of skin, and/or pain at site of application
• diarrhea if ingested

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

• an allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, though effects may be prolonged in pets with kidney or liver disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

Clindamycin should NOT BE USED in:

• animals allergic to any of the components or allergic to other lincosamides (e.g., lincomycin)
• guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas, and rabbits due to potentially fatal gastrointestinal dysbiosis if ingested

Clindamycin should be USED WITH CAUTION in animals:

• with small body size

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

No known drug interactions have been reported for topical clindamycin. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian may schedule a follow-up visit after the course of medication is complete to ensure the condition has been cleared and/or do additional testing to ensure this is the right medication for the type of condition present. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store clindamycin topical?

• Store the medication in its original container, protected from light and heat, at room temperature.
• Keep the cap tightly closed.
• If your veterinarian or pharmacist has made a special (compounded) formulation for your pet, follow the storage recommendations and expiration date for the product.
• Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should also be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.