Dalacin cream

Dalacin is a topical cream used to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV) in women. It has been available in the EU since 1993, and has been a popular BV treatment ever since.

It contains an antibiotic which works to target the bacteria causing the infection, clearing symptoms within 1 week. You apply Dalacin cream once daily at night using a specialised applicator, which allows for direct relief.

Dalacin cream contains an antibiotic called clindamycin. It works by stopping the bacteria from producing vital proteins they need to survive. Over time, this kills existing bacteria and stops their growth, which clears the bacterial vaginosis infection.

Dalacin is an effective and safe treatment for bacterial vaginosis. One study compared Dalacin cream with another BV treatment, metronidazole, in 234 patients.

1 month after treatment, they found 83% of people on Dalacin were cured, compared to 78% on Metronidazole.

Dalacin cream takes 7 days to completely treat the infection. However, you should start to feel better within the first few days of treatment. You must use Dalacin for the entire 7-day course to ensure the infection is cleared.

Dalacin is safe to use for most women with BV. However, you should speak to your doctor if you have:

• a history of inflammatory bowel disease
• had antibiotic-associated colitis

Dalacin cream for BV is generally considered safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding, but always ask your doctor first.

You should avoid having sex whilst you have BV. Dalacin cream can weaken barrier contraceptives such as condoms or diaphragms. If you use these contraceptives, avoid sex or use an alternative form of contraception.

Dalacin cream is applied into the vagina using specialised applicators. You apply one applicator once daily at night for 7 days. One full applicator contains 5 g of Dalacin cream.

How to use Dalacin cream
	Preparing the applicator Remove the cap from the cream tube. Screw one of the disposable applicators on the tube where the cap was removed. Roll the tube from the bottom and squeeze the cream gently into the applicator. Once the plunger stops moving, the applicator is full. Unscrew the applicator and replace the cap on the tube.
	Inserting the cream Lie on your back with your knees up. Firmly grasp the applicator and insert it gently into the vagina as far as possible without causing discomfort. Slowly push the plunger until it stops and all the cream has been used. Carefully remove the applicator and dispose of it in a bin. Wash your hands well after applying the cream.

If you miss a dose and it is just a few hours late, use it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time.

Like all prescription medicines, Dalacin may cause side effects. The most common side effects should go away on their own once your body gets used to the medicine.

Common side effects (up to 1 in 10 people):

• diarrhoea (discontinue use if severe)
• skin reactions
• vaginal thrush

Speak to your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any persistent or serious side effects, such as severe bloody diarrhoea or signs of an allergic reaction.

For a full list of side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet (PIL).

No, Dalacin is not available without a prescription. Our doctors will only prescribe treatment if you meet the criteria in your online consultation.

A prescription from a trusted healthcare provider like 121doc ensures:

• safety during treatment
• effective results
• monitoring of side effects

You should avoid using Dalacin cream during your period. The menstrual flow may reduce the effectiveness of the cream.

It is safe to drink alcohol while using Dalacin cream and should not cause any adverse effects. However, excessive alcohol may make the symptoms of BV worse so it is best to drink in moderation or avoid it completely.

No, Dalacin 2% cream should only be used for bacterial vaginosis. Vaginal thrush is caused by a fungal infection and, therefore, should be treated with antifungals like fluconazole (Diflucan).