Dalacin Cream 2%

Dalacin Cream for Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment

What is Dalacin Cream?

Dalacin Cream is a prescription treatment containing 2% clindamycin, an antibiotic specifically designed to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV). It comes as a vaginal cream that you apply using pre-filled disposable applicators, making treatment straightforward and hygienic.

Bacterial vaginosis happens when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. Dalacin works by targeting the harmful bacteria responsible for the infection while helping restore your vaginal health.

How Does Dalacin Cream Work?

Dalacin contains the active ingredient clindamycin, an antibiotic that works directly at the site of infection. When applied inside the vagina, clindamycin targets and kills the bacteria causing bacterial vaginosis.

Unlike antibiotics you swallow, Dalacin vaginal cream works locally, meaning it delivers treatment exactly where it’s needed. This targeted approach helps clear the infection while minimising side effects elsewhere in your body. You’ll need to use the cream for seven consecutive days to fully clear the infection and prevent it from coming back.

What is Dalacin Cream Used to Treat?

Dalacin Cream is specifically used to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance in the natural bacteria found in the vagina. BV is not a sexually transmitted infection, although it can develop after having sex.

Common Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

• Unusual vaginal discharge that’s often thin and greyish-white
• A strong, unpleasant fishy smell, particularly after sex
• Vaginal irritation or itching
• Burning sensation when urinating

Some women with BV don’t have any symptoms at all, but if left untreated, the infection can lead to complications, particularly during pregnancy or before gynaecological procedures. Dalacin Cream helps clear the infection by targeting the harmful bacteria while supporting your body’s natural bacterial balance.

Who Can Use Dalacin Cream?

Dalacin Cream is suitable for adult women who have been diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis. It’s an effective treatment option for those looking for a targeted, locally-applied medication rather than oral antibiotics.

However, Dalacin may not be suitable for everyone. You shouldn’t use Dalacin Cream if you:

• Are allergic to clindamycin, lincomycin, or any other ingredients in the cream
• Have a history of colitis (inflammation of the bowel) or severe diarrhoea caused by antibiotics

You should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using Dalacin if you:

• Are pregnant or trying to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding
• Have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Have a history of allergies to medications
• Have a history of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea

It’s important to complete the full seven-day course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve earlier. Stopping treatment too soon may allow the infection to return.

Important contraception note: Dalacin Cream can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, making them less effective at preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Avoid using latex barrier contraception during treatment and for at least five days after finishing the course. Use alternative contraception methods during this time.

How to Apply Dalacin Cream

Dalacin Cream comes with pre-filled disposable applicators, making it easy to use. Follow these steps for proper application:

1. Apply the cream at bedtime, as lying down helps the medication stay in place and work effectively overnight.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after application.
3. Remove one applicator from its wrapper. The applicator comes pre-filled with the correct dose.
4. Either lie on your back with your knees bent, or stand with one foot raised on a chair or the edge of the bath.
5. Gently insert the applicator as far as it will comfortably go into your vagina (similar to inserting a tampon).
6. Slowly push the plunger until it stops, releasing the cream inside your vagina.
7. Carefully withdraw the applicator and throw it away. Do not reuse applicators.
8. Repeat this process once daily for seven consecutive days, even if your symptoms improve or during your period.

You may want to use a panty liner as some of the cream may leak out. Avoid washing the vaginal area with soap during treatment – just use water. Do not douche or use other vaginal products unless your doctor tells you to.

Dalacin Cream Side Effects

Like all medications, Dalacin Cream can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and affect the area where you’ve applied the treatment.

Common Side Effects

• Vaginal itching or irritation
• Vaginal thrush (yeast infection)
• Changes in vaginal discharge
• Mild burning or discomfort
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Headache

Uncommon Side Effects

• Urinary tract infection
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Unusual vaginal bleeding

Serious Side Effects

Although rare, some side effects require immediate medical attention. Stop using Dalacin Cream and contact your doctor or go to A&E if you experience:

• Severe or bloody diarrhoea (this can occur even weeks after finishing treatment)
• Severe allergic reaction like a rash, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe abdominal pain

If you experience any side effects, whether listed here or not, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. You can report any side effects to the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) through the Yellow Card Scheme, which helps monitor medication safety for everyone.

Dalacin Cream 2 % Ingredients

Active ingredient: Clindamycin phosphate 2% (equivalent to 20mg clindamycin per gram)

Inactive ingredients: Benzyl alcohol, cetostearyl alcohol, cetyl palmitate, stearic acid, polysorbate 60, sorbitan monostearate, purified water.

Dalacin Cream Warnings

• Do not use tampons, douches, or other vaginal products during treatment unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Dalacin may cause vaginal thrush (a yeast infection). If you develop symptoms of thrush like thick white discharge and increased itching, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
• Contact your doctor immediately if you develop severe or prolonged diarrhoea during or after treatment, as this can be a sign of a serious bowel condition.
• Store Dalacin Cream below 25°C and keep it out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date on the packaging.