Veltin

Veltin is an acne medication that comes in the form of a gel. The prescription drug contains both an antibiotic and a retinoid; it is thought to work by reducing inflammation and slowing the rapid growth of skin cells. Typically, a small amount is applied daily, just before bedtime. Although most people tolerate it well, side effects can include dry skin, irritation, and scaling.

Veltin Acne Medication Information

What Is Veltin?

Veltin™ (clindamycin/tretinoin gel) is a prescription acne medication. It contains both an antibiotic and a retinoid.

(Click Veltin Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes Veltin?

Veltin is made by DPT Laboratories, Ltd., for Stiefel Laboratories, Inc.

How Does It Work?

As stated previously, Veltin contains two different active ingredients: clindamycin and tretinoin. Tretinoin belongs to a group of medications known as retinoids, meaning it is chemically related to vitamin A. Tretinoin and other retinoids probably work by suppressing inflammation and slowing rapid skin cell growth.

Clindamycin belongs to a group of antibiotics known as lincosamides. This substance works by inhibiting part of bacterial ribosomes. Ribosomes are parts of cells that make proteins.

By inhibiting the ribosomes, clindamycin interferes with the ability of bacteria to make proteins, which is necessary for the bacteria to grow and multiply. Clindamycin specifically inhibits the 50S subunit of the ribosome. Since human cells do not have a 50S subunit, they are spared from the effects of the antibiotic.

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