Clindamycin is an antibiotic. It is an active ingredient in many different prescription medications. The medication comes in many different forms, such as capsules, lotions or gels, vaginal suppositories, or as an injection. It is used to treat a variety of different infections.
Clindamycin belongs to a group of antibiotics known as lincosamides and works by inhibiting bacterial ribosomes (ribosomes are parts of cells that make proteins). By inhibiting ribosomes, the drug interferes with the ability of bacteria to make proteins, which is necessary for bacteria to grow and multiply. Clindamycin specifically inhibits the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome. Because human cells do not have a 50S subunit, they are spared from the effects of the antibiotic.
When and How to Take This Medication
Some general considerations for those taking clindamycin include the following:
- This medication comes in many different forms. The particular directions for each product can vary substantially, so make sure to refer to the information for your specific clindamycin product.
- When taking clindamycin by mouth, it generally does not matter if you take it with or without food.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not miss a dose or stop taking clindamycin earlier than your healthcare provider recommends, as bacterial resistance may develop.
The dose of clindamycin your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The particular clindamycin product
- The type and severity of your infection
- How you respond to the medication
- Other medications you are taking
- Your weight (for children)
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Clindamycin
Just like any medicine, clindamycin can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems; some people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
The specific side effects depend on the particular form of clindamycin. Commonly reported problems include but are not limited to:
(Click Clindamycin Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
- Liver disease, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatitis
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Colitis
- Frequent yeast infections
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not clear what exactly to expect from an overdose of clindamycin. If you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Clindamycin Be Stored?
Most clindamycin products should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children. Refer to the storage directions for your particular product.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
As with all antibiotics, it is important to avoid missing doses. If you do miss a dose, simply take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Many different prescription clindamycin products are available in several different forms
(see Clindamycin HCL for more information about oral forms of the medication and Clindamycin Phosphate for more information about other forms).
Many (but not all) clindamycin products are available in generic form.
