Clindamycin is a prescription medication used in the treatment of bacterial infections and severe acne. It is an antibiotic belonging to a class of drugs called the lincosamides. Several dosage forms of this medication are available, including capsules, intravenous infusion, injection, topical foam, topical gel, lotion and solution. Clindamycin exerts its action on the bacteria, preventing them from replication inside the body. Many precautions should be taken by users of clindamycin. If you have any concerns, discuss them with a health care professional.
Liver Dysfunction
Clindamycin is eliminated from the body through the liver and may affect its function. In individuals who have liver dysfunction, the dose of the medication may need to be reduced to avoid progression to liver disease. These individuals should avoid using clindamycin, or use it cautiously. Always inform your physician of your past medical history and all the medications you take, including herbal supplements.
Severe Diarrhea
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning of colitis with clindamycin use. Colitis is the inflammation of the colon or large intestine. Normally, the colon has many different types of bacteria growing in it, but treatment with antibiotics will alter the number and type of bacteria that may grow. This may lead to an overgrowth of a bacterium called clostridium difficile. When this bacterium is present in a high amount, diarrhea may become severe and lead to fatal colitis. According to the "Drug Information Handbook," if significant diarrhea, abdominal cramps, passage of blood or mucus occurs, stop taking the medication and seek medical help immediately.
Increased Risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and Pregnancy
The clindamycin vaginal cream may lead to an increased risk of an unplanned pregnancy or of contracting a sexually transmitted disease. Any products that are used vaginally may weaken latex or rubber condoms, making them more likely to break. Clindamycin may also make contraceptive diaphragms less effective against preventing pregnancy. Therefore, use of clindamycin with these and other barrier methods of contraception are not recommended. In some cases, you may be able to use a barrier method after three to five days; this depends on the product you are using. Speak with your health care provider if this is a major concern for you, and discuss your options.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook 15th Edition"; Charles F. Lacy, RPh, PharmD, FCSHP, Lora L. Armstrong, RPh, PharmD, BCPS. et al; 2007
- RxList: Cleocin
