Lincomycin Side Effects

Lincomycin, frequently sold under the brand names Lincocin and Bactramycin, is a drug used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in the body. As a prescription drug, Lincomycin is capable of causing a number of mild to severe side effects depending on the dose size and the individual.

Identification

• Lincomycin is a prescription drug that is classified under the group of medications known as antibiotics. It is used to treat serious bacterial infections in patients incapable of receiving injections of penicillin. It works effectively by blocking the production of proteins essential for the bacterial sustenance and production. Other purposes of this medication are determined by your doctor.

Common Side Effects

• The use of Lincomycin may cause the following common and less serious side effects: vomiting, mild skin irritation, diarrhea, irregular urination, nausea and pain at the injection area. Although common, if any of the preceding side effects become more severe or persist, contact your doctor immediately. The persistence of any of these side effects may be the sign of a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Severe Side Effects

• According to Drugs.com, Lincomycin has been known to cause a number of severe side effects including dizziness, yellowing of the skin and eyes, swelling of the extremities, severe skin irritation, bloody stools, severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, decreased urine and difficulty swallowing. Lincomycin use may also cause a severe allergic reaction which is recognized by swelling of the face and lips. At the occurrence of one or several of the above symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Use

• Since Lincomycin is received through an injection into the muscle tissue, be sure to follow the injection procedures as outlined by your doctor. Never use the medication if it appears cloudy or the vial is cracked. Drugs.com recommends taking the injection at the same time each day in order to avoid missing a dose. To avoid infection, never reuse the needles or syringes. Typical doses of Lincomycin are taken once every 12 to 14 hours. Store at room temperature and away from heat and moisture.

Warning

• Lincomycin is used to treat bacterial infections and will not cure viruses. Lincomycin should never be used in infants or newborns as it may cause severe side effects. Since Lincomycin can be transferred through breast milk, discuss your use of this medication if pregnant or breast-feeding. Although visible signs of the infection may clear, be sure to use Lincomycin for the full length of the treatment in order to avoid recurrence. Use with extreme care in the elderly.