Clindesse
Clindamycin phosphate · Cream · Vaginal
Uses
Clindesse is a lincosamide antibacterial indicated for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis in non-pregnant women ( 1.1 ) 1.1 Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis Clindesse is indicated for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (formerly referred to as Haemophilus vaginitis, Gardnerella vaginitis, nonspecific vaginitis, Corynebacterium vaginitis, or anaerobic vaginosis) in non-pregnant women.
Dosage and administration
The recommended dose is the complete contents of a single pre-filled applicator containing 5 g of Clindesse cream administered once intravaginally at any time of the day. Not for ophthalmic, dermal, or oral use.
• For intravaginal use only
• A single applicator of cream administered once intravaginally at any time of the day ( 2 )
• Not for ophthalmic, dermal, or oral use
Dosage forms and strengths
Clindesse is an intravaginal cream containing clindamycin phosphate 2%. Each pre-filled, single-dose applicator delivers approximately 5 g of cream containing approximately 100 mg of clindamycin. Vaginal cream: 2% clindamycin phosphate in one single-dose, pre-filled disposable applicator that delivers approximately 5 g of cream containing approximately 100 mg of clindamycin ( 3 )
Contraindications
• History of hypersensitivity to clindamycin or other lincosamides ( 4.1 )
• History of regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or a history of Clostridioides difficile- associated diarrhea ( 4.2 , 5.1 ) 4.1 Hypersensitivity Clindesse is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to clindamycin or other lincosamides. Reported reactions to other formulations of clindamycin include rashes, urticaria, erythema multiforme, and anaphylactoid reactions [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . 4.2 History of Bowel Disease Clindesse is contraindicated in patients with regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or a history of Clostridioides difficile -associated diarrhea.
Warnings and precautions
• Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea: Discontinue and evaluate if diarrhea occurs ( 5.1 )
• Use with Condoms and Vaginal Contraceptive Diaphragms: The use of barrier contraceptives (condoms or vaginal contraceptive diaphragms) is not recommended concurrently or for 5 days following treatment. Condoms may not be reliable for preventing pregnancy or for protecting against transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases during this time period ( 5.2 , 8.3 ) 5.1 Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea (CDAD) Clostridioides difficile -associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including clindamycin, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile . C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile , and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . 5.2 Use with Condoms and Vaginal Contraceptive Diaphragms This cream contains mineral oil that may weaken latex or rubber products such as condoms or vaginal contraceptive diaphragms. Therefore, the use of such barrier contraceptives is not recommended concurrently or for 5 days following treatment with Clindesse. During this time period, condoms may not be reliable for preventing pregnancy or for protecting against transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.3 )] .
Side effects
Most common adverse reactions reported in ≥2% of patients and at a higher rate in the Clindesse group than in the placebo group are vaginosis fungal (14%), headache (7%), back pain (5%), constipation (2%), and urinary tract infection (2%) ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Padagis ® at 1-866-634-9120 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Study Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described below reflect exposure to Clindesse in 368 patients. Clindesse was studied in three clinical studies: placebo-controlled (n=85), active-controlled (n=263), and single-arm (n=20). The population was female, aged 18 to 78, who were diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis. Patient demographics in the trials were 51% Caucasian, 36% Black, 10% Hispanic, and 3% Asian, other or unknown. All patients received 100 mg clindamycin phosphate cream intravaginally in a single dose. Of the 368 women treated with a single dose of Clindesse, 1.6% of the patients discontinued therapy due to adverse reactions. Adverse reactions occurred in 126 of 368 patients (34%) treated with Clindesse and in 32 of 85 patients (38%) treated with placebo. Adverse reactions occurring in ≥2% of patients receiving Clindesse in the placebo-controlled clinical trial are shown in Table 1. Table 1. Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥2% of Clindesse-Treated Patients and at a Higher Rate than Placebo-Treated Patients Adverse Reactions Clindesse N=85 n (%) Placebo N=85 n (%) Vaginosis fungal NOS* 12 (14) 7 (8) Headache NOS 6 (7) 2 (2) Back Pain 4 (5) 1 (1) Constipation 2 (2) 0 (0) Urinary tract infection NOS 2 (2) 0 (0) N = number of patients in intent-to-treat population n (%) = number and percentage of patients with reported adverse reaction NOS = not otherwise specified *The use of clindamycin may result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible fungal organisms in the vagina and may require antifungal treatment Other reactions reported by <1% of those women treated with Clindesse include: Dermatologic: Pruritic rash Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, vomiting General: Fatigue Immune System: Hypersensitivity Nervous System: Dizziness Reproductive System: Dysfunctional uterine bleeding, dysmennorrhea, intermenstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, vaginal burning, vaginal irritation, vulvar erythema, vulvitis, vulvovaginal discomfort, vulvovaginal dryness, vulvovaginitis 6.2 Other Clindamycin Formulations Clindesse affords minimal peak serum levels and systemic exposure (AUCs) of clindamycin compared to an oral or intravenous dose of clindamycin [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Data from well-controlled trials directly comparing clindamycin administered orally to clindamycin administered vaginally are not available. The following additional adverse reactions and altered laboratory tests have been reported with the oral or parenteral use of clindamycin: Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, esophagitis, nausea, Clostridioides difficile -associated diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Hematopoietic: Transient neutropenia (leukopenia), eosinophilia, agranulocytosis, and thrombocytopenia have been reported. No direct etiologic relationship to concurrent clindamycin therapy could be made in any of these reports. Hypersensitivity Reactions: Maculopapular rash, vesiculobullous rash, and urticaria have been observed during drug therapy. Generalized mild to moderate morbilliform-like skin rashes are the most frequently reported of all adverse reactions. Cases of erythema multiforme, some resembling Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have been associated with clindamycin. A few cases of anaphylactoid reactions have been reported. Liver: Jaundice and abnormalities in liver function tests have been observed during clindamycin therapy. Musculoskeletal: Cases of polyarthritis have been reported. Renal: Although no direct relationship of clindamycin to renal damage has been established, renal dysfunction as evidenced by azotemia, oliguria, and/or proteinuria has been observed in rare instances. Immune System: Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) cases have been reported. 6.3 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of Clindesse. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Dermatologic: Rash Gastrointestinal: Hematochezia Reproductive System: Vaginal erythema, vulvovaginal pruritis, vaginal discharge, vaginal swelling, vaginal bleeding, vaginal pain
Drug interactions
No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted for Clindesse. Neuromuscular blocking agents: Enhanced action of neuromuscular blocking agents can occur; use with caution ( 7.1 ) 7.1 Neuromuscular Blocking Agents Orally or intravenously administered clindamycin has neuromuscular blocking properties that may enhance the action of other neuromuscular blocking agents. Therefore, it should be used with caution in patients receiving such agents.
Use in specific populations
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Clindesse has not been studied in pregnant women. The systemic exposure (based on AUC and C max ) of Clindesse administered intravaginally is substantially lower than clindamycin administered intravenously [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] ; therefore, maternal use is not likely to result in significant fetal exposure to the drug. Available data from published observational studies and randomized controlled trials over decades of use with other clindamycin products during pregnancy have not identified an increased risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental outcomes were observed in pregnant rats and mice administered oral doses of clindamycin at up to 600 mg/kg/day (58 and 29 times, respectively, the recommended human dose based on a body surface area comparison) ( see Data ). The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and mice using oral doses of clindamycin up to 600 mg/kg/day (58 and 29 times, respectively, the recommended human dose based on body surface area comparisons) and have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus due to clindamycin. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary The systemic exposure (based on AUC and C max ) of Clindesse is substantially lower than intravenous administration of clindamycin [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] ; therefore, adverse effects on the breastfed infant are not expected from transfer of clindamycin into breastmilk. There are no data on the effect of clindamycin on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for Clindesse and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from Clindesse or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Contraception Clindesse contains mineral oil that may weaken latex or rubber products such as condoms or vaginal contraceptive diaphragms. Therefore, the use of such barrier contraceptives is not recommended concurrently or for 5 days following treatment with Clindesse. During this time period, condoms may not be reliable for preventing pregnancy or for protecting against transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and efficacy of Clindesse in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis in post-menarchal females have been established on the extrapolation of clinical trial data from adult women. The safety and efficacy of Clindesse in pre-menarchal females have not been established. 8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies with Clindesse did not include sufficient numbers of subjects 65 years of age or older to determine whether they respond differently than younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients.
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Clindesse has not been studied in pregnant women. The systemic exposure (based on AUC and C max ) of Clindesse administered intravaginally is substantially lower than clindamycin administered intravenously [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] ; therefore, maternal use is not likely to result in significant fetal exposure to the drug. Available data from published observational studies and randomized controlled trials over decades of use with other clindamycin products during pregnancy have not identified an increased risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental outcomes were observed in pregnant rats and mice administered oral doses of clindamycin at up to 600 mg/kg/day (58 and 29 times, respectively, the recommended human dose based on a body surface area comparison) ( see Data ). The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and mice using oral doses of clindamycin up to 600 mg/kg/day (58 and 29 times, respectively, the recommended human dose based on body surface area comparisons) and have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus due to clindamycin.
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and efficacy of Clindesse in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis in post-menarchal females have been established on the extrapolation of clinical trial data from adult women. The safety and efficacy of Clindesse in pre-menarchal females have not been established.
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies with Clindesse did not include sufficient numbers of subjects 65 years of age or older to determine whether they respond differently than younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients.
Overdosage
Vaginally applied clindamycin phosphate vaginal cream 2% could be absorbed in sufficient amounts to produce systemic effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] .
Description
Clindamycin phosphate, a lincosamide, is a water soluble ester of the semi-synthetic antibiotic produced by a 7(S)-chloro-substitution of the 7(R)-hydroxyl group of the parent antibiotic lincomycin. The chemical name for clindamycin phosphate is methyl 7-chloro- 6,7,8-trideoxy-6-(1-methyl- trans - 4-propyl-L-2-pyrrolidinecarboxamido)-1-thio-L- threo-(alpha)-D-galacto- octopyranoside 2-(dihydrogen phosphate). It has a molecular weight of 504.96, and the molecular formula is C 18 H 34 CIN 2 O 8 PS. The structural formula is represented below: Clindesse is a semi-solid, white cream, which contains clindamycin phosphate, USP, at a concentration equivalent to 20 mg clindamycin base per gram. The cream also contains edetate disodium, glycerol monoisostearate, lecithin, methylparaben, microcrystalline wax, mineral oil, polyglyceryl-3-oleate, propylparaben, purified water, silicon dioxide and sorbitol solution. Clindesse does not comply with the pH test of the USP monograph for clindamycin phosphate vaginal cream. Structural Formula
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action Clindamycin is an antibacterial drug [see Clinical Pharmacology, Microbiology ( 12.4 )] .
How supplied
Clindesse (clindamycin phosphate) Vaginal Cream, 2%, is available in cartons containing one single-dose, pre-filled disposable applicator (NDC 45802-042-01). Each applicator delivers approximately 5 g of vaginal cream containing approximately 100 mg of clindamycin. Store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Avoid heat above 30°C (86°F).
Patient information
Vaginal Intercourse and Use with Vaginal Products Instruct the patient not to engage in vaginal intercourse, or use other vaginal products (such as tampons or douches) during treatment with this product. Use with Condoms and Vaginal Contraceptive Diaphragms Advise the patient that Clindesse contains mineral oil that may weaken latex or rubber products such as condoms or vaginal contraceptive diaphragms. Therefore, do not use barrier contraceptives concurrently or for 5 days following treatment with Clindesse. During this time period, condoms may not be reliable for preventing pregnancy or for protecting against transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.3 )] . Fungal Vaginal Infections Inform the patient that vaginal fungal infections can occur following use of Clindesse and may require treatment with an antifungal drug [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Accidental Exposure to the Eye Inform the patient that Clindesse contains ingredients which cause burning and irritation of the eye. In the event of accidental contact with the eye, rinse the eye with copious amounts of cool tap water and consult a physician. Manufactured by Padagis ® Yeruham, Israel Patents at www.padagis.com/patents Cleocin is a registered trademark of Pharmacia & Upjohn Company. 2S000 RC PH7
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd (revised Jan 30, 2025). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Clindamycin Phosphate in 1 product
Clindesse NDC products (1)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45802-042 | Clindamycin Phosphate 100 mg/5g Cream | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | NDA |
Frequently asked questions
What is Clindesse used for?
Clindesse is a lincosamide antibacterial indicated for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis in non-pregnant women ( 1.1 ) 1.1 Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis Clindesse is indicated for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (formerly referred to as Haemophilus vaginitis, Gardnerella vaginitis, nonspecific vaginitis, Corynebacterium vaginitis, or anaerobic vaginosis) in non-pregnant women.
What are the side effects of Clindesse?
Most common adverse reactions reported in ≥2% of patients and at a higher rate in the Clindesse group than in the placebo group are vaginosis fungal (14%), headache (7%), back pain (5%), constipation (2%), and urinary tract infection (2%) ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Padagis ® at 1-866-634-9120 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Study… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Clindesse?
Clindesse is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd.