acloderm 1% gel - Clindamycin (1%) medicine

Acloderm 1% Gel: Comprehensive Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

No reviews yet
Clindamycin (1%)
🏭 Dermo Care Laboratories 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 18, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for acne vulgaris.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 18, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
Related Clinical Tools & Lab Test Analyzers
View All 26 Tools →

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe or persistent diarrhea
  • Blood or mucus in stool
  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping
  • Fever with abdominal pain
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe skin rash or blistering
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is acloderm 1% gel used for?

This medicine is a topical antibiotic gel containing clindamycin 1%, used to treat inflammatory acne by reducing bacteria and inflammation on the skin.

  • Generic Name: Clindamycin (1%)
  • Manufacturer: Dermo Care Laboratories
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 acloderm 1% gel के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक टॉपिकल जेल है जिसमें क्लिंडामाइसिन 1% होता है। यह मुँहासे (एक्ने) के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह त्वचा पर लगाने से बैक्टीरिया को मारती है और सूजन कम करती है। यह मुँहासे, पिंपल्स और लालिमा को कम करने में मदद करती है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह पर ही इस्तेमाल करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में त्वचा का सूखना, छीलना, खुजली, लालिमा और जलन शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको गंभीर दस्त, पेट दर्द, बुखार, या एलर्जी के लक्षण जैसे चकत्ते, सूजन या सांस लेने में कठिनाई हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को केवल त्वचा पर ही लगाएं। आंखों, होंठों और म्यूकस मेम्ब्रेन से बचाएं। टूटी या घायल त्वचा पर न लगाएं। लगाने से पहले और बाद में हाथ धोएं। अन्य टॉपिकल एक्ने उत्पादों के साथ इस्तेमाल करने से बचें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 acloderm 1% gel Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Inflammatory acne vulgaris","description":"Reduces the number of inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions by inhibiting the growth of Cutibacterium acnes and reducing inflammation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Acne rosacea","description":"Sometimes used off-label to reduce papules and pustules associated with rosacea.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Bacterial skin infections","description":"May be used for certain localized bacterial skin infections caused by susceptible organisms.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Hidradenitis suppurativa","description":"Occasionally prescribed to reduce inflammation and bacterial colonization in mild cases.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Folliculitis","description":"May be used to treat bacterial folliculitis of the skin.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Acne vulgaris

Also treats: Rosacea, Folliculitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Clindamycin (1%)
Brand Nameacloderm 1% gel
ManufacturerDermo Care Laboratories
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassLincosamides
Route of AdministrationTopical
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Apply a thin layer of this medicine to the affected area after washing with a mild cleanser.
2
Use a pea-sized amount for the entire face to avoid excessive irritation.
3
Avoid using other topical acne products unless your doctor approves, as they can increase irritation.
4
If you experience severe diarrhea or abdominal pain, stop using this medicine and contact your doctor immediately.
5
Consistency is key: use this medicine regularly as prescribed to see improvement, which may take several weeks.
6
Do not apply this medicine to broken or sunburned skin.
7
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Inflammatory acne
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Blackheads and whiteheads
This medicine helps reduce both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Fungal skin infection
This medicine is not effective against fungi.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionSystemic absorption of clindamycin after topical application is minimal, typically less than 1% of the applied dose. However, absorption can increase if the skin is broken or if large areas are treated.
DistributionClindamycin is widely distributed in body fluids and tissues, but after topical application, distribution is primarily local to the skin and pilosebaceous units. It does not cross the blood-brain barrier significantly.
Protein BindingClindamycin is approximately 90% bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin.
MetabolismClindamycin is metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes, to active and inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of clindamycin is approximately 2 to 3 hours in adults with normal renal and hepatic function.
ExcretionClindamycin and its metabolites are excreted mainly in urine and bile, with some excretion in feces.
BioavailabilitySystemic bioavailability after topical application is very low, typically less than 1%.
Onset of ActionImprovement in acne lesions may be seen within 2 to 4 weeks of regular use, but full effects may take 8 to 12 weeks.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations after topical application are generally not significant, but if absorbed, peak levels occur within 1 to 2 hours.
Duration of ActionThe local antibacterial effect lasts for several hours after application, but the clinical effect on acne is cumulative over weeks of use.

How It Works

Clindamycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, inhibiting protein synthesis. This action is primarily bacteriostatic, but it can be bactericidal at higher concentrations. By blocking the production of essential bacterial proteins, clindamycin prevents the bacteria from growing and multiplying, allowing the body's immune system to clear the infection. In acne, clindamycin also reduces the population of Cutibacterium acnes on the skin, which decreases the release of inflammatory mediators and helps reduce the formation of new pimples.

Mechanism Steps

1
Penetration into skin: After application, clindamycin penetrates the stratum corneum and reaches the pilosebaceous units where Cutibacterium acnes resides.
2
Binding to bacterial ribosome: Clindamycin binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, specifically to the 23S rRNA component.
3
Inhibition of protein synthesis: This binding prevents the elongation of the peptide chain, thereby stopping bacterial protein synthesis.
4
Bacterial growth arrest: Without essential proteins, the bacteria cannot grow or multiply, leading to a reduction in bacterial load.
5
Reduction of inflammation: As bacterial numbers decrease, the release of pro-inflammatory mediators is reduced, leading to less redness and swelling.

💡 How to Take acloderm 1% gel

Strength: Gel containing clindamycin 1% (10 mg/g)

1Wash your hands and the affected area with a mild cleanser and pat dry.
2Apply a thin layer of the gel to the affected area using your fingertips.
3Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
4Wash your hands after application.
5Use once or twice daily as prescribed.
6Do not cover the treated area with tight dressings unless instructed.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageApply a thin layer of this medicine to the affected area once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. Wash and dry the skin thoroughly before application. Use a pea-sized amount for the entire face. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the severity of acne and response to treatment.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageNo specific dosage adjustments are required for elderly patients. Use as directed by a doctor.
Renal ImpairmentNo dosage adjustment is needed for renal impairment.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dosage adjustment is needed for hepatic impairment.
Maximum Daily DoseNot established from the available information.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

No specific food interactions
Not applicable
This medicine is applied topically and does not interact with food.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not apply a double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of acloderm 1% gel

✅ Common Side Effects

Dry skin (Common (5-10%))
Apply a moisturizer if needed. If dryness persists, consult your doctor.
Peeling (Common (5-10%))
Reduce frequency of application or use a gentle cleanser. Consult doctor if severe.
Itching (Common (5-10%))
Avoid scratching. If itching is severe or accompanied by rash, stop use and consult doctor.
Redness (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves with continued use. If it worsens, consult doctor.
Burning sensation (Common (5-10%))
Apply a cool compress. If burning is severe, discontinue and consult doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, hives, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Pseudomembranous colitis (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop using this medicine and seek immediate medical attention if you develop severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, or fever.
Contact dermatitis (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Discontinue use and consult a doctor if you develop a severe rash or skin irritation.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Skin discoloration
Consult a dermatologist if this occurs.
Excessive hair growth
Consult a dermatologist if this occurs.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Erythromycin Major
Neuromuscular blockers Major
Benzoyl peroxide Moderate
Salicylic acid Moderate
Tretinoin Moderate
Abrasive cleansers Moderate
Alcohol-based toners Minor
Sunscreen Minor
Moisturizers Minor
Other antibiotics Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Erythromycin
  • Neuromuscular blocking agents

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Other topical acne products (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid)
  • Abrasive soaps and cleansers

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

No known interaction between alcohol and topically applied clindamycin. However, alcohol consumption may worsen acne in some individuals.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to clindamycin or lincomycin","History of inflammatory bowel disease","History of antibiotic-associated colitis","Use on broken or eczematous skin"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.","Do not apply to large areas of broken skin.","Discontinue if severe diarrhea or colitis develops.","May cause skin irritation; use with caution in sensitive skin.","Avoid concurrent use with other topical antibiotics unless directed.","Keep out of reach of children.","Consult doctor if no improvement after 12 weeks."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Clindamycin is excreted in breast milk. Topical application is unlikely to result in significant systemic absorption, but caution is advised. Consult your doctor before using while breastfeeding. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant exposure.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose with topical clindamycin is unlikely. If excessive amounts are applied, wash the area with water. If ingested, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of systemic overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Treatment is supportive.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine. Use a pea-sized amount to cover the affected area thinly. Do not cover the treated area with tight dressings or bandages unless instructed by your doctor. Avoid using other topical acne products unless approved by your doctor, as they may cause irritation. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed without medical advice.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

No specific precautions for elderly patients. Use as directed by a doctor.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Topical clindamycin is generally considered safe, but your doctor may recommend alternative treatments.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you have recently had surgery, consult your doctor before using this medicine on the surgical area. Avoid applying to healing wounds.

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific considerations for dental procedures. Inform your dentist about all medications you are taking.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser.
🥗
Avoid picking or squeezing pimples to prevent scarring.
😴
Use oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens.
💧
Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
🧘
Manage stress as it can worsen acne.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to support skin health.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Exercise is generally safe while using this medicine. However, sweat may irritate the skin, so wash your face after exercising. Avoid touching your face with dirty hands.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
Reduce intake of high-glycemic foods.
Stay well hydrated.
Limit dairy if it seems to trigger acne.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It may cause mild skin irritation, but this is usually manageable. You can continue your normal daily activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine and consult your doctor if you experience severe skin irritation, allergic reactions, or severe diarrhea. Do not stop without consulting your doctor if you are seeing improvement, as acne may return.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of topical clindamycin may lead to bacterial resistance. It is important to use it only as prescribed and for the recommended duration. Regular follow-up with your doctor is advised to monitor effectiveness and adjust treatment if needed. Prolonged use may also increase the risk of skin irritation.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Salicylic acid cleansers

Can help unclog pores and reduce mild acne.

Evidence: Well-established
Tea tree oil

May have antibacterial properties, but evidence is limited.

Evidence: Limited
Phototherapy

Light therapy can reduce acne-causing bacteria.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interactions with vaccines. Continue routine vaccinations as scheduled.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label. Keep it in your carry-on luggage if flying. Store at room temperature and avoid extreme heat or cold. If traveling across time zones, continue your regular application schedule. Check customs regulations for prescription medications in your destination country.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 22-year-old college student with moderate facial acne
She started using this medicine as prescribed by her dermatologist. After 4 weeks, she noticed fewer pimples and less redness. She experienced mild dryness, which was managed with a moisturizer. She emphasized the importance of applying it consistently every night.
💡 Lesson: Regular use and proper skin care can lead to significant improvement in acne over time.
👤 A 30-year-old woman with acne on her chin and jawline
She was prescribed this medicine along with an oral antibiotic. She applied it twice daily and saw improvement in 6 weeks. She had to stop using it briefly due to irritation but resumed after consulting her doctor. She learned to use a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh scrubs.
💡 Lesson: Combination therapy and gentle skin care can enhance results and minimize side effects.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start seeing improvement in 2 to 4 weeks, but full effects may take 8 to 12 weeks of regular use.

Q: Can I use this medicine with benzoyl peroxide?

A: Using them together may increase skin irritation. Consult your doctor before combining.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: Topical clindamycin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but consult your doctor before use.

Q: What should I do if I get severe diarrhea?

A: Stop using this medicine and contact your doctor immediately, as it may be a sign of a serious condition called pseudomembranous colitis.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I use this medicine long-term?
  • Will it make my skin dry?
  • Can I wear makeup over this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my other acne treatments?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I use it during pregnancy?

🔄 Substitutes for acloderm 1% gel

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Topical antibiotics work immediately.
    Fact: It takes several weeks to see improvement in acne.
  • Myth: You can stop using it once acne clears.
    Fact: Acne may return if treatment is stopped prematurely; follow your doctor's advice.
  • Myth: More gel means faster results.
    Fact: Using more than prescribed can cause irritation without added benefit.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Clindamycin 1% gel

Brand Alternatives

  • Acloderm 1% Gel

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Acloderm 1% Gel","active_ingredient":"Clindamycin 1%","class":"Lincosamide antibiotic","route":"Topical","primary_use":"Acne vulgaris"},{"medicine":"Erythromycin 2% Gel","active_ingredient":"Erythromycin 2%","class":"Macrolide antibiotic","route":"Topical","primary_use":"Acne vulgaris"},{"medicine":"Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Gel","active_ingredient":"Benzoyl peroxide 5%","class":"Antibacterial agent","route":"Topical","primary_use":"Acne vulgaris"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory