Clindamycin

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:  

Clindahexal, Dalacin C (capsules), Dalacin T (solution/lotion), Dalacin VC (vaginal cream)

Popular combinations:

Clindoxyl (gel)

Drug group:

Antibiotic

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Clindamycin is a broad spectrum antibiotic that is useful for treating:

• Osteomyelitis, erysipelas and cellulitis - reaches good concentrations in the bones and skin
• Protozoal infections - such as toxoplasmosis and falciparum malaria
• Acne, vulval/vaginal infections – applied topically

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Capsules: 4 x daily with plenty of water, total daily adult dose = 600mg–1.8g
• Injection: total daily adult dose = 0.6–4.8g in 2–4 divided doses
• Topical solution: 1 pre-prepared applicator daily
• Vaginal cream: 5g used 1–2 x daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 1 hour
               

How long will the effects last?

6 hours

When should I stop using it?

Complete course as prescribed by your doctor
 

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No major problems with the topical solution or vaginal cream.

Long-term oral/injected forms carry an ongoing risk of Clostridium difficile diarrhoea.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• Topical solution or vaginal cream: rash and/or itching
• Oral/intravenous: Clostridium difficile diarrhoea (Clindamycin may cause proliferation of Clostridium difficile in the intestines, causing a serious/life-threatening diarrhoea
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: severe nausea or diarrhoea, allergy-like symptoms, jaundice

What other considerations are important?

Dosage of oral Clindamycin may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: a history of antibiotic-associated or Clostridium difficile diarrhoea
• Other medicines: Warfarin, pyridostigmine, neostigmine, oral typhoid vaccine
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: may not be safe, discuss with your doctor
• Children: Reduced dose necessary
• Over 60: Not recommended, increased risk of Clostridium difficile diarrhoea
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol: No special problems