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Clindamycin Treatments

Clindamycin is a prescription antibiotic most often used to treat serious and severe infections. Because in rare cases it has been known to cause serious and even life-threatening side effects, clindamycin is reserved for treated serious infections, with more mild infections treated with more common antibiotics, such as penicillin or cephalosporin. One exception is meningitis, which cannot be treated with clindamycin. As with all antibiotics, clindamycin should only be used to treat infections caused by bacterial infections.

  1. How It Works

    • Clindamycin is a lincomycin antibiotic that works by targeting the bacteria causing an infection and then interfering with its ability to manufacture the proteins necessary for them to survive. When this happens, the bacteria die and the infection clears. When taking clindamycin, it is important to take all the prescribed medication to ensure the infection does not return.

    How To Take It

    • Clindamycin is available in several forms. It is most often taken orally in pill form. It is most effective when it is taken at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food, but it should always be taken with a full glass of water. The dosage and the frequency with which it should be taken will depend on the patient and the condition it is treating, but always follow your doctor's instructions.

    Non-Serious Side Effects

    • Many people will not experience any side effects when taking clindamycin, but some may develop nausea, vomiting and mild diarrhea. These side effects are commonly associated with antibiotics and are no cause for concern.

    Serious Side Effects

    • In rare cases, people taking clindamycin may develop serious, possibly life-threatening side effects that require immediate medical treatment. If you notice any of the following, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor immediately: jaundice; a decrease in urination; bloody or tarry stools; an unusual vaginal discharge or vaginal itching or odor; red, swollen, peeling or blistered skin; severe stomach cramps or pain; joint swelling or pain; and severe or persistent diarrhea.

    Warnings

    • Although most people can safely take clindamycin, some should not take it, including women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those who have diarrhea and those who are allergic to tartrazine. People with liver, bowel or stomach problems also should not take it. Before taking clindamycin, be sure to speak with your doctor about any health conditions you have.

    Drug Interactions

    • As with many drugs, clindamycin is known to interact with other medicines. For example, people taking it with non-depolarizing muscle relaxants or succinylcholine are more likely to experience those drugs' side effects. Clindamycin also may be less effective with taken along with erythromycin. Always be sure to discuss any other medicines you are taking with your doctor and pharmacist.

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