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Written By
Sakshi Anil More
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
Dr. Tejashwin Adiga
MBBS
Last updated : 31 Mar 2026 | 09:31 AM (IST)
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Quick Summary
CLINDAMYCIN
Last updated on 31 Mar 2026 | 09:31 AM (IST)
CLINDAMYCIN
Background and Date of approval CLINDAMYCIN
The U.S. FDA-approved Clindamycin for bacterial infection on November 27, 2000. Clindamycin is a lincosamide drug that belongs to the medication class known as an antibiotic.
Uses of CLINDAMYCIN
Clindamycin is used to treat certain serious bacterial infections by inhibiting bacterial growth.
How is CLINDAMYCIN administered?
Clindamycin will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered in muscle or vein (intravenous). Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.
Side Effects of CLINDAMYCIN
The most common side effects of Clindamycin are inflammation of the veins (blood clot), abnormal liver function, and rash. Serious side effects while taking Clindamycin are sepsis (blood poisoning) and angioedema (swelling in the deeper layers of the skin).
Warnings
Clindamycin should not be consumed if you are allergic to Clindamycin, Lincomycin, or any of its ingredients in the medication. Inform your doctor if you have a history of antibiotic-related diarrhea or stomach or intestinal issues. Notify your doctor immediately if you have severe or prolonged diarrhea, including bloody diarrhea. Mention any allergies (such as hay fever, asthma, or eczema), kidney, or liver problems to your doctor.
Precautions
Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Seek medical attention if you experience decreased urine output, fluid retention, swelling reactions, shortness of breath, or nausea. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience severe, prolonged, or bloody diarrhea during or after using Clindamycin Injection, as it may be a sign of bowel inflammation (pseudomembranous colitis) that can occur weeks after antibiotic treatment.
Word of Advice
Liver and kidney patients should take Clindamycin cautiously and inform their doctor about all the underlying medical conditions. Do not stop the medicine until your doctor advises. Do not double-dose the medicine to make up for a forgotten dose. Do not breastfeed while taking Clindamycin. Notify your doctor if you experience any serious side effects.
Your medical professional will inform you if you need any dose adjustments. Contact your doctor for more information. If you are scheduled for a surgical procedure or hospitalized, inform your doctor about your use of Clindamycin, as it may interact with certain medications and enhance their effects. Do not freeze the medicine. Do not store above 25°C. Always check the expiry date before consuming it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.
How to manage the side effects of Clindamycin?
To manage the side effects of Clindamycin, follow the prescribed dosage, and report side effects immediately to your doctor. Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy lifestyle, and attend follow-up appointments.
Q2.
Can Clindamycin cause skin rash?
Clindamycin can cause skin rash as an adverse reaction, indicating an allergic response or sensitivity. Consult your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.
Q3.
Can you take Clindamycin when pregnant?
Consult your medical professional regarding the use of Clindamycin during pregnancy. The potential benefits and risks should be carefully assessed. Your doctor will suggest taking this medicine only if it's necessary.
Q4.
What are the side effects of Clindamycin?
Common side effects of Clindamycin include inflammation of the veins (blood clot), abnormal liver function, and rash It is crucial to consult your doctor for any concerns or persistent side effects.
Q5.
What is the available form of Clindamycin?
Clindamycin is available in different formulations, such as oral capsules, tablets, gel, cream, lotion, oral solution, vaginal cream, and injectable form. The choice of formulation depends on the specific treatment needs and the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Q6.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Clindamycin?
If you miss a dose of the capsule, take it as soon as possible. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose the Clindamycin.
References
- Focus Pharmaceuticals Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on March 2022] [Accessed on 8th June 2023], *Microsoft Word - CLINDA~1 (medicines.org.uk)
- Pfizer, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on October 2007] [ Accessed on 8th June 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/050441s055,050639s016lbl.pdf
- Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Protein Synthesis Inhibitors and Miscellaneous Antibacterial Agents,12th edition, 2011,1534.
- .KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Macrolide, Lincosamide, Glycopeptide, and Other Antibacterial Antibiotics, 7th edition, 2013, 756.
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.
