Ziana (Clindamycin Phosphate/Tretinoin)

Description

Indications

This combination medication is utilized in the treatment of acne. It aids in reducing the quantity and intensity of acne pimples and facilitates the faster healing of any pimples that do arise. Tretinoin is classified as a retinoid medication, working by influencing the growth of skin cells. Clindamycin, on the other hand, is an antibiotic that inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

Uses and Dosage

Before applying this medication, wash your hands thoroughly. Clean the affected skin gently with a mild or soapless cleanser and pat it dry. Use your fingertips to apply a small amount of medication (approximately the size of a pea) in a thin layer over the face, following your doctor’s instructions, usually once daily at bedtime.

Be cautious to avoid the eye and lip areas.

Apply this medication only to the skin; do not use it on the inner lip area or inside the nose/mouth. Avoid applying it to areas with cuts, scrapes, sunburn, or eczema.

Prevent contact with your eyes. If contact occurs, rinse with ample water. Contact your doctor if eye irritation arises.

After application, wash your hands to prevent inadvertently getting the medication in your eyes.

In the initial weeks of using this product, your acne may worsen as the medication works on pimples forming beneath the skin. It may take several weeks to observe results from this medication.

Use it regularly to derive the maximum benefit. To aid in remembering, apply it at the same time each day. Do not exceed the recommended amount or frequency of use. Using more will not hasten skin improvement but can increase the risk of redness, peeling, and discomfort.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• headache
• skin irritation due to dryness, redness, peeling, burning, or stinging
• sunburn
• temporary change in skin colour

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• red, swollen, blistered, or crusted skin
• severe abdominal cramps, pain, or bloating
• severe watery diarrhea that may be bloody
• rash
• hives
• swelling of the lips or face, difficulty breathing

Caution

• Before using this product, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to clindamycin, tretinoin, lincomycin, vitamin A-related drugs (other retinoids such as isotretinoin), or any other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
• Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, especially if you have certain intestinal problems (such as regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, colitis caused by antibiotics, C. difficile-associated diarrhea, Crohn’s disease), or eczema.
• This medication may heighten your sensitivity to sunlight. Minimize sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and be cautious of weather extremes such as wind or cold, which can irritate the skin. Apply sunscreen daily and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness. Wait until your skin has completely healed from sunburn before using this product.
• Avoid electrolysis, waxing, and chemical depilatories for hair removal on the treated areas while using this product.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only if clearly necessary, as it may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• It is uncertain whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Biacna Topical Gel is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Biacna Topical Gel gel:
  • 1.2 % / 0.025 %

FAQ

How long does it take for Biacna Topical Gel to clear my acne?

Biacna Topical Gel can take up to 12 weeks to work. During the first few weeks, you may notice that your acne gets worse.

This is expected and happens because the medication is working on pimples forming underneath the skin.

Is Biacna Topical Gel good for cystic acne?

Biacna Topical Gel is not indicated for the treatment of pustular and deep cystic nodular acne varieties.

Resources

1. https://pdf.hres.ca/dpd_pm/00012024.PDF
2. https://www.goodrx.com/ziana/what-is#faqs
3. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/biacna#adverseeffects
4. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/clindamycintretinoin-gel-topical
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/clindamycin-and-tretinoin-topical-application-route/side-effects/drg-20070320
6. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-146081/clindamycin-tretinoin-topical/details
7. https://www.drugs.com/comments/clindamycin-tretinoin-topical/