Clindamycin Antibiotics: What You Need to Know

If your doctor mentioned clindamycin, you probably wonder what it does and how to use it right. In plain terms, clindamycin is an antibiotic that stops certain bacteria from growing. It’s a go‑to for skin infections, dental infections, and some serious lung infections. Knowing the basics helps you avoid mistakes and get the best results.

When Doctors Prescribe Clindamycin

Doctors usually pick clindamycin when the infection is caused by bacteria that other antibiotics can’t handle. Common cases include boils, cellulitis, seriously infected acne, and certain throat infections after a tooth extraction. It also works for bone infections (osteomyelitis) and some anaerobic infections that thrive without oxygen. If you’ve tried another antibiotic and it didn’t clear up the infection, your doctor might switch you to clindamycin.

How to Take Clindamycin Safely

The key to safe use is following the prescription exactly. Take the pill or liquid at the same times each day, with a full glass of water. Food can help if the medicine upsets your stomach, but some forms work better on an empty stomach—check your label. Never skip a dose; missing doses can let bacteria grow back and become resistant.

Typical adult doses range from 150 mg to 450 mg every 6–8 hours, depending on how severe the infection is. Your doctor will set the exact amount for you. For children, the dose is based on weight, so be sure the pharmacy measures it correctly. The treatment length can be as short as 5 days for a simple skin bite, but more complex infections might need 10–14 days.

Watch for side effects. The most common ones are mild stomach upset, diarrhea, or a metallic taste. If you get severe diarrhea that looks watery or contains blood, stop the drug and call your doctor right away—this could be a sign of C. difficuile infection, a serious complication. Other rare reactions include rash, itching, or breathing trouble, which also need immediate medical attention.

Because clindamycin can affect gut bacteria, many doctors recommend a probiotic during and after the course. A simple yogurt with live cultures or an over‑the‑counter probiotic can keep your digestive system balanced. Keep a list of any other medicines you’re taking; clindamycin can interact with drugs like erythromycin or certain hormonal contraceptives.

Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. If you have leftover pills, don’t keep them for later use—antibiotics lose potency and using the wrong dose can cause resistance. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of any unused medicine safely.

In short, clindamycin is a strong tool against specific bacterial infections, but it works best when you follow the dosing schedule, watch for side effects, and support your gut health. If anything feels off, call your healthcare provider. Staying informed makes the antibiotic work faster and keeps you on the road to feeling better.