What is Xaciato? Uses, warnings & side effects

Open the tube of Xaciato by unscrewing its cap and puncturing the tube’s seal using the pointed tip at the top of the cap.

Hold the applicator by its grip and screw the tip of the applicator onto the tube until it feels secure. Leave the plunger inside the applicator.

Squeeze the tube from the bottom. The gel will push the plunger up as the applicator fills. Continue to fill the applicator until you see a black line on the plunger pass the end of the applicator. Unscrew the applicator from the tube.

Lie on your back with your knees bent or in a comfortable position. Insert the applicator into the vagina as far as it will comfortably go. Slowly push the plunger until it stops. 

Remove the empty applicator from the vagina and place it in the original box that it came in, along with the tube, then throw the box away in the trash.

Since Xaciato is taken as a one-time dose, a forgotten or missed dose can be taken as soon as remembered.

Xaciato should not be taken if hypersensitivity to clindamycin or lincomycin has previously occurred.

There is a risk of Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea occurring when taking antibiotics. This can occur up to two months following Xaciato treatment. Those with inflammatory bowel disease are at an increased risk, so it is important to give a full medical history to your healthcare provider before starting Xaciato.

Xaciato increases the risk of getting a yeast infection. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about what you can do in order to prevent a yeast infection. Taking probiotics can help reduce this risk.

Vaginal sex should be avoided during Xaciato treatment and for three days following treatment. 

The safety and effectiveness is unknown in those younger than 12 years of age.

There are limited studies on whether or not Xaciato causes harm during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Since the risk of systemic effects of Xaciato is low, use of it while pregnant or breastfeeding is not likely to affect the infant. However, you should always consult a healthcare provider in order to compare the risks and benefits of taking any medication while pregnant or nursing.

Neuromuscular blocking agents: Systemic clindamycin also has neuromuscular blocking properties. While the risk of vaginal clindamycin phosphate working systemically is low, caution should still be practiced in patients who take neuromuscular blocking agents.

Polyurethane condoms: Xaciato may weaken polyurethane condoms. Their use is not recommended during treatment and for the following seven days after treatment. Latex or polyisoprene condoms should be used instead.

Vaginal products: Vaginal products, such as tampons and douches, should be avoided during treatment and for three days following treatment because they may reduce the efficacy of Xaciato.