Ziana (Clindamycin/Tretinoin)

What is Ziana?

Ziana is a topical medication which is a combination of clindamycin and tretinoin. This combination medicine is indicated for the treatment of acne.

What is Ziana used for?

Ziana is used in the treatment of severe nodular acne. The medication reduces the number and severity of acne pimples.

How does Ziana work?

Ziana is a combination of clindamycin and tretinoin.

Tretinoin is a retinoid, a form of Vitamin A. It reduces oil production by oil glands present in skin and also helps skin renew itself.

On the other hand clindamycin is an antibiotic. It prevents the growth of acne causing bacteria.

The combination of these two effects helps Ziana heal acne pimples quickly.

How to use Ziana

Ziana should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Using the medication in larger amount may increase side effects. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Ziana is usually used once a day, before bedtime.

Wash your hands before applying the medication. Also clean your face with a mild cleanser. Then apply a small amount of the medication in an even layer on the entire face. Do not wash the area that has been treated for at least an hour following the application of this medication.

Avoid using the medication on irritated, sunburned, windburned, broken, and chapped skin. Do not bring the medication in contact with eyes, nose or mouth.

Avoid using other topical products on the affected area without permission from your doctor.

Do not wash your face more than three times a day while using Ziana as doing so will worsen the acne.

Do not stop your dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Ziana warnings and precautions

Ziana is not administered to patients who are allergic to clindamycin or tretinoin.

Although Ziana is a topical medicine, clindamycin may be absorbed into the blood in enough amounts and complications may arise. Hence patients who are suffering from enteritis (inflammation of intestines) or ulcerative colitis, or have a history of diarrhea caused by antibiotics may be advised against using this medication.

You should avoid using skin products which cause dryness or contain alcohol, astringents or lime. Also avoid application of hair removal cream or wax on the affected area.

This medication is not recommended for children below 12 years of age.

The medication can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Therefore, you should wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen of minimum SPF 15 before stepping into the sun. Avoid exposure to UV rays and procedures such as tanning.

It can also cause diarrhea which is a sign of an infection. Consult your doctor at once if you have bloody or watery diarrhea.

Ziana is believed to be harmful to a fetus. Hence pregnant women should not use this medication. Also inform your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Effects of the medication on a nursing baby are not known for certain. Therefore, lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of using Ziana with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Ziana dose?

If you have missed a Ziana dose, use it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped.

What do I do if I have taken a Ziana overdose?

If you have used an overdose of Ziana, consult your doctor immediately.

Ziana interactions

Topical and oral erythromycin and other acne products can interact with Ziana.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all topical products /prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are using, before using Ziana.

You should not start using a skin product or medication without consulting your doctor.

Ziana side effects

Side effects from Ziana include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin etc. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Also, consult your doctor if you notice severe redness, burning or peeling of the treated skin or if you have bloody or watery diarrhea.

Dry skin, mild burning or stinging sensation, mild itchiness, nasal discharge, sore throat, cough, temporary change of complexion of the treated skin are some less serious side effects of Ziana.