About clindamycin
Lincosamide antibiotic
Used for
- Treats certain bacterial infections, including skin, dental, bone, and respiratory infections.
- Used for some serious infections when other antibiotics are unsuitable.
Usual adult dose
Usually 150–450 mg every 6 hours, depending on infection severity.
Usual dose in children
Usually 8–25 mg/kg/day divided into 3–4 doses; dose depends on infection severity.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, or vomiting.
- Rash or itching.
- Serious antibiotic-associated diarrhea or colitis.
Important warnings
- Can cause severe, potentially life-threatening inflammation of the colon.
- Use only for infections caused by susceptible bacteria; it does not treat viral infections.
- Tell the prescriber about prior colitis or severe antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
- Complete the prescribed course unless a clinician changes treatment.
Pregnancy
May be used during pregnancy when needed; available evidence has not shown an increased risk of birth defects.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; monitor the infant for diarrhea, thrush, or diaper rash.
Interactions
- Warfarin and related blood thinners: may increase bleeding risk; monitoring may be needed.
- Neuromuscular blocking medicines: effects may be increased.
- Erythromycin may reduce clindamycin’s antibacterial effect.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.