Acnesol Gel 1% (20 gm)

What is Acnesol Gel

Acnesol Gel is a prescription-only medication used to treat acne. It contains Clindamycin Phosphate 1% w/w, an FDA-approved topical antibiotic. Marketed and manufactured by Systopic Laboratories Pvt Ltd. in a GMP and WHO-compliant facility, it helps clear existing pimples and prevent new breakouts.

This topical antibiotic gel works by blocking bacterial protein synthesis, preventing the growth of Cutibacterium acnes (formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes), the bacteria responsible for acne. This reduces bacterial growth and inflammation, allowing existing pimples to heal while helping prevent new acne lesions.

The dosage of Acnesol Gel depends entirely on an individual’s acne condition and the doctor’s prescription. It is generally applied as a thin layer to the affected area once or twice daily. Make sure to clean and pat dry the skin before application, and continue the treatment for the full prescribed duration without missing doses for the best results.

Acnesol Gel is generally well-tolerated when used as directed. Some people may experience mild skin dryness, peeling, redness, itching, or irritation at the application site, which usually improves as the skin adjusts. However, it is always best to consult a doctor if these effects persist or worsen.

Store Acnesol Gel below 25°C in a dry and dark place, but not in the refrigerator. Keep the tube tightly closed after use and do not use it beyond the expiration date.

What are the benefits of taking Acnesol Gel

Acnesol Gel is a topical antibiotic that helps treat bacterial acne and improve overall skin health. When used consistently as prescribed by a healthcare professional, its key benefits include:

• Acne treatment: Clindamycin gel works by stopping the growth of Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria that commonly cause acne. This helps heal and clear existing pimples.
• Reduces inflammation: It reduces the inflammatory response caused by acne-causing bacteria. This helps relieve redness, swelling, and tenderness, making acne lesions heal faster.
• Prevents new blemishes: By controlling the growth of acne-causing bacteria, Acnesol Gel reduces the risk of new pimples. Regular use helps keep the skin clearer and reduces the risk of recurring breakouts.

How quickly does Acnesol Gel work

Acnesol Gel typically starts reducing acne-causing bacteria and inflammation within 1 to 2 weeks of use. However, visible improvements usually appear within 2 to 6 weeks, while optimal results may take 8 to 12 weeks of regular use, depending on the severity of acne.

For the best outcome, apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin at the same time each day. Avoid using harsh soaps, abrasive cleansers, or other irritating topical products unless recommended by your doctor, as they may increase skin irritation.

It is important to complete the prescribed course, even if your acne starts to improve. Stopping or skipping the treatment early can reduce its effectiveness and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Acnesol Gel: Generic Clindamycin vs Cleocin T

Acnesol Gel contains Clindamycin, the same FDA-approved active ingredient found in Cleocin T. Both medications work by blocking the bacterial protein synthesis, which stops the growth of acne-causing bacteria and helps reduce inflammation and acne breakouts.

The key difference between the generic and brand Clindamycin is the price. Brand Cleocin T costs around $122/tube at US pharmacies, while Acnesol Gel is available at Everyday Generic for $5.75/tube.

Systopic Laboratories Pvt. Ltd markets and manufactures Acnesol Gel at GMP-compliant, WHO-certified facilities. You may notice slight differences in packaging and inactive ingredients (binders, fillers, coloring). These variations are common in pharmaceutical manufacturing and do not affect the active ingredient, quality, safety or intended therapeutic effect of the pimple treatment gel.

How to take Acnesol Gel

To achieve the best results and reduce the risk of skin irritation, use Acnesol Gel as directed by your healthcare professional. Follow these general steps:

• Wash and pat dry the affected areas with warm water and soap.
• Take a pea-sized amount of gel and apply it gently over the affected area.
• Be careful while applying near the eyes, mouth, nose and inner ear.
• Clean your hands carefully after using the product.
• Do not skip or discontinue the usage without consulting your doctor.
• Limit direct sunlight exposure and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.

Strengths and Substitutes

Currently, the acne treatment gel is only available in a 20 gm pack. However, the Everyday Generic is stocked up with various alternatives of Acnesol Gel. You can explore below options depending on your doctor’s prescription:

View all Substitutes →

What are the side effects of Acnesol Gel

Like any other medication, this topical antibiotic treatment can cause some unwanted reactions. These reactions are generally mild and temporary. Some of the common side effects include:

• Dryness
• Peeling
• Burning sensation
• Itching
• Redness
• Skin irritation
• Oily skin (occasionally)

These side effects often improve as your body adjusts to the treatment. However, if they persist or worsen, or if you experience rare side effects such as stomach cramps, severe allergic reactions, or unusual weight loss, seek immediate medical attention.

Safety Advice

Liver Disease

People with liver disease should use Acnesol Gel with caution and only as prescribed by a doctor. Although absorption into the bloodstream is minimal, prolonged or excessive use may increase the risk of side effects. So, inform your doctor about any liver condition before starting treatment.

Kidney Impairment

Acnesol Gel is generally considered safe for use in patients with kidney impairment, as only a very small amount of the medicine is absorbed through the skin. However, it is always recommended to consult your doctor for a dosage guide and for combining it with other prescription medications.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding women

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use Acnesol Gel only if prescribed by a healthcare professional. Although topical absorption is low, your doctor will guide you on whether the benefits outweigh any potential risks. Also, avoid applying the gel to the breast area before breastfeeding.

Avoid

Do not apply Acnesol Gel to broken, sunburned, or irritated skin, and keep it away from the eyes, mouth, and inside the nose. Limit excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen during treatment, as the skin may become more sensitive. Also, avoid using any other harsh acne products as the Clindamycin gel is generally considered a standalone treatment.