This second section of our medication database entry focuses on potential side effects, withdrawal or discontinuation effects, and additional information, while part one covers basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits.
Or click here for clinical trials research information on clindamycin.
What are the possible side effects of clindamycin?
- Rare cases of severe, and sometimes fatal, diarrhea (called pseudomembranous colitis) have occurred with the use of antibiotics, including clindamycin. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience diarrhea during or within several weeks following treatment with clindamycin.
- If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking clindamycin and seek emergency medical attention:
- an allergic reaction (swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; shortness of breath; closing of the throat; or hives);
- a rash;
- diarrhea;
- yellowing of the skin or eyes;
- abdominal pain; or
- little or no urine.
- Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take clindamycin and talk to your doctor if you experience
- nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite;
- heartburn; or
- an unpleasant or metallic taste in the mouth.
- Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect clindamycin?
- Before taking clindamycin, tell your doctor if you are taking erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S., PCE, Eryc, others). These medicines may not work as well if they are taken together.
- Medicines containing kaolin and pectin (e.g., Kao-Spen, K-C, Kaodene, Kapectolin), which are used to treat diarrhea, may decrease the effects of clindamycin. Do not take kaolin and pectin during treatment with clindamycin.
- Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with clindamycin. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.
Where can I get more information?
- Your pharmacist has additional information about clindamycin written for health professionals that you may read.
- Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children. Never share your medicines with others and only use this medicine for the illness your doctor prescribed it for.
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Version: 4.01. Revision date: 6/9/03.