Cleocin (Clindamycin)

Common use

        Cleocin kills sensitive bacteria by stopping the production of essential bacterial proteins after binding a bacterial ribosome. Cleocin is close by its qualities to Lincomycin. Lincosamides are usually used to treat staphylococci and streptococci. Cleocin is administered to treat protozoal diseases such as malaria, infections of respiratory system, skin and soft tissures, bones and joints, abdominal organs, and others. It does not treat meningitis.

Dosage and directions

Take orally four times a day with or without food with a full glass of water. Take Cleocin at evenly spaced intervals.

Precautions

        This medication should be used only for treatment of serious bacterial infections due to its ability to cause severe and even fatal intestinal condition known as pseudomembranous colitis. This condition may appear during treatment or even weeks after treatment has stopped. So if you have persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, or blood/mucus in your stool do not use anti-diarrhea drugs and inform your doctor about your condition.

Contraindications

        Do not take this drug if you have antibiotic-associated colitis, Crohn disease, ulcerative colitis or meningitis, have allergy to Cleocin or Lincomycides. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before to take this medication, have diarrhea, a history of liver problems or stomach or bowel problems.

Possible side effect

        Mild diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or upset stomach may occur. If they become persist or become bothersome contact your doctor. Seek medical attention right away if you have serious signs of allergy (hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face) or other side effects: bloody or tarry stools, decreased urination, severe stomach cramps or pain, unusual vaginal discharge, yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Drug interaction

        Inform your doctor about all drugs you are taking and especially about erythromycin, kaolin-pectin, live bacterial vaccines. Clindamycin may increase the effects of drugs used during surgery so your doctor should know if you are taking Cleocin and plan to be operated.

Missed dose

        Never take a double dose of this medication. If it is almost time of the next dose just skip the missed portion and continue to take the medicine according to the schedule.

Overdose

        Cleocin overdose may cause serious consequences, so in case of persistent symptoms of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea contact your doctor.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59-77 degrees F (15-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture, kids and pets.