Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Adapalene/Benzoyl Peroxide/Clindamycin Topical Gel (CLINDAMYCIN/ADAPALENE/BENZOYL PEROXIDE GEL - TOPICAL)

For acne.

Brand Name(s): Cabtreo

Generic Name: Adapalene/Benzoyl Peroxide/Clindamycin

Instructions

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Gently clean the affected area with a mild, soapless cleanser and pat dry before using this medicine.

Apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub it in.

Store in original bottle, tightly closed and upright.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

This medicine should only be used on the skin.

Do not use any other acne medicines on your skin while using this medicine unless instructed by your doctor.

Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash the medicine off your fingers after applying it.

This medicine may bleach fabric or hair.

Avoid prolonged or excessive sunlight exposure. Use sunscreen lotion with SPF 15 or higher.

Do not use on cuts, scrapes, open wounds, sunburned skin, or skin with eczema (rash).

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

If medicine gets in your eyes, rinse well with cool water.

Avoid long exposure to extreme weather such as wind, cold, or the sun.

Use a moisturizing cream or lotion to reduce skin irritation.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Please ask your pharmacist how long you can use this medicine before you need to discard it.

Do not freeze the medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Please tell your doctor if you have moderate to severe diarrhea while on this medicine. Do not treat the diarrhea with over-the-counter diarrhea medicine.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsens after 4 weeks of using this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • burning or stinging
  • dry skin
  • flaking or peeling skin
  • skin irritation where medicine is applied
  • skin redness

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
  • severe stomach or bowel pain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.