ZIANA Ointment – Comprehensive Product Description
Brand Name: ZIANA Ointment
Generic Names (Active Ingredients): Clindamycin Phosphate and Tretinoin
Other Popular/Common Names: Clindamycin-Tretinoin topical combination, Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% + Tretinoin 0.025% ointment
Drug Classification: Topical Antibiotic and Retinoid Combination

What is ZIANA Ointment used for?
ZIANA Ointment contains clindamycin phosphate, a topical antibiotic, and tretinoin, a retinoid. It is used for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris by reducing bacterial growth and promoting skin cell turnover. Clindamycin targets acne-causing bacteria, while tretinoin helps prevent clogged pores and improves skin texture.

Product Overview
ZIANA Ointment is a dual-action topical medication combining the antibacterial effects of clindamycin with the keratolytic and comedolytic properties of tretinoin. This combination targets multiple pathogenic factors in acne, including Propionibacterium acnes colonization and follicular hyperkeratinization. The formulation is designed for once-daily application, improving treatment adherence and efficacy in mild to moderate inflammatory acne.

Mode of Action (Pharmacodynamics)
Clindamycin Phosphate: A lincosamide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, effectively reducing Propionibacterium acnes population and inflammation.

Tretinoin: A vitamin A derivative (all-trans retinoic acid) that modulates epithelial cell growth and differentiation, promoting exfoliation of follicular epithelial cells, reducing comedone formation, and normalizing keratinization.

Dosage & Administration
Formulation: Topical ointment containing clindamycin phosphate 1.2% and tretinoin 0.025%.

Typical Dosage:

Apply a thin layer once daily to affected skin areas after washing and drying.

Avoid excessive application; use as directed by a healthcare provider.

Use at night for optimal efficacy and to reduce photodegradation of tretinoin.

Administration Tips:

Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.

Wash hands thoroughly after application.

Use sunscreen daily during treatment, as tretinoin increases photosensitivity.

Prescribing Information
ATC Code: D10AD51

Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption of topical clindamycin and tretinoin; local effects predominate.

Metabolism: Tretinoin is metabolized by hepatic enzymes; systemic exposure is negligible with topical use.

Safety Information
Side Effects (Mostly Local and Mild)
Skin irritation, redness, peeling, dryness, itching

Burning or stinging sensation at application site

Photosensitivity leading to increased risk of sunburn

Rare allergic contact dermatitis

Warnings & Cautions
Avoid use in patients with hypersensitivity to clindamycin, tretinoin, or any component of the formulation.

Do not use on sunburned, irritated, or eczematous skin.

Use caution when combining with other topical acne treatments to avoid excessive irritation.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a physician before use.

Discontinue if severe irritation or allergic reaction occurs.

Drug Interactions
Concurrent use with other topical products containing alcohol, astringents, or exfoliants may increase irritation.

Avoid simultaneous use with systemic antibiotics unless prescribed.

Phototoxic reactions may be enhanced by concurrent photosensitizing medications.

(References: Journal of Dermatological Treatment, Clinical Acne Research, 2023)

Storage Instructions
Store at controlled room temperature (20–25°C).

Protect from light and moisture.

Keep out of reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it take for ZIANA Ointment to show results?
Improvements are typically seen within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use, with continued benefits up to 12 weeks.

Q2: Can I use ZIANA Ointment on sensitive skin?
Use cautiously and start with small areas to assess tolerance; mild irritation is common initially.

Q3: Can I use makeup while applying ZIANA?
Wait for the ointment to dry completely before applying makeup. Use non-comedogenic cosmetics.

Q4: Is it safe to use ZIANA during pregnancy?
Tretinoin is generally not recommended during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider.

Q5: What should I do if I miss a dose?
Apply the missed dose as soon as remembered but do not double the next application.