Important safety information
Black Box Warning: Clindamycin can cause severe and potentially fatal colitis (inflammation of the colon) caused by an overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria.
Signs of colitis: Call a doctor immediately if you experience watery or bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, or fever. This can occur during or up to several months after treatment.
Serious skin reactions: Severe and potentially fatal skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, can occur. Stop taking the medication and seek emergency care if you develop a rash, hives, or blistering.
Uses
Clindamycin 300 mg capsules treat a variety of bacterial infections, including:
Respiratory tract infections: Conditions like pneumonia and other lower respiratory infections.
Skin and soft tissue infections: Including those caused by Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
Dental infections: Such as dental abscesses.
Gynecological infections: Pelvic inflammatory disease and bacterial vaginosis.
Bone and joint infections: Such as osteomyelitis.
Administration
Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. Taking it while sitting or standing upright and remaining that way for at least 30 minutes can help prevent esophageal irritation.
The capsules can be taken with or without food, but taking them with food may help reduce stomach upset.
It is important to complete the full prescribed course of clindamycin as directed by a healthcare professional, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Stopping early can lead to the return of the infection and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Side effects
Common side effects of oral clindamycin include:
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Mild skin rash
Metallic or unpleasant taste in the mouth
Vaginal itching or discharge
Precautions and warnings
Before taking clindamycin, tell your doctor if you have a history of:
Allergy to clindamycin or lincomycin
Gastrointestinal diseases, such as colitis or Crohn's disease
Liver or kidney disease
Asthma, eczema, or other allergies
Drug interactions
Clindamycin can interact with other medications, including:
Erythromycin and rifampin: Concurrent use with these antibiotics is not recommended.
Warfarin: Clindamycin may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners like warfarin.
Neuromuscular blocking agents: Clindamycin can enhance the effects of these agents.
