Clindamycin is an antibiotic that prevents bacteria from growing. It belongs to the lincosamide family and works by disrupting bacterial protein synthesis. It is used to treat various bacterial infections and is available in different forms, including oral capsules, injections, and topical applications.
Clindamycin Uses
Treats severe infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria.
Effective against serious infections from streptococci, pneumococci, and staphylococci.
Used for bacterial vaginosis and acne treatment.
Helps treat anthrax and malaria in combination with other medications.
Used for ear infections, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, and toxoplasmosis when other treatments are ineffective.
Prevents endocarditis in at-risk individuals post-dental procedures.
How to Use Clindamycin
Follow the doctor’s prescription and instructions on the label.
Take oral clindamycin with a full glass of water to prevent throat irritation.
Measure liquid medicine accurately with the provided syringe or a dose-measuring device.
Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve to prevent drug-resistant infections.
Clindamycin does not treat viral infections like the flu or colds.
Dosage
The dosage depends on the patient’s age, the condition being treated, its severity, and any other medications being taken.
Usual Adult Dose:
Severe infections: 150 to 300 mg every 6 hours.
More severe infections: 300 to 450 mg every 6 hours.
Usual Pediatric Dose:
Severe infections: 8 to 16 mg/kg/day divided into 3-4 equal doses.
More severe infections: 16 to 20 mg/kg/day divided into 3-4 equal doses.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as remembered.
If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose.
Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
Overdosing
Symptoms of overdose may include:
Diarrhea
Seizures
Temporary paralysis
Low blood pressure
Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.
Common Clindamycin Side Effects
Nausea
Unpleasant taste in the mouth
Joint pains
Pain when swallowing
Heartburn
White spots in the mouth
Thick, white vaginal discharge
Abdominal pain
Esophageal irritation
Allergic skin reactions
Vaginal inflammation
Impaired liver and kidney function
Arthritis
Serious Clindamycin Side Effects
Blistering skin
Eruptions and itchiness
Difficulty breathing
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Reduced urination
Precautions
Inform your doctor of any allergies, existing medical conditions, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not use clindamycin if allergic to it or similar antibiotics.
Interactions
Keep a list of all products you use and share it with your doctor.
Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine without your doctor’s approval.
Storage
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Do not refrigerate oral liquid; discard any unused oral liquid after 2 weeks.
Protect injectable medication from high heat.
Other Information
If symptoms or side effects worsen, contact your doctor immediately.
Do not share medication with others.
Consult your pharmacist for disposal methods of unused or expired medication.
For any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
