CLINDAMYCIN (KLIN da MYE sin) treats infections caused by too much bacteria in the vagina. It belongs to a group of medications called antibiotics. It will not treat yeast infections or infections caused by viruses.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Stomach or intestine problems, such as colitis
An unusual or allergic reaction to clindamycin, other medications, foods, dyes or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breastfeeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is only for use in the vagina. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not get it in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the prescription label. Do not use it more often than directed. Use the medication for the full course as directed by your care team, even if you think you are better. Do not stop using it unless your care team tells you to stop it early.
Place the medication in the vagina using the special applicator supplied with the cream. Fill the applicator with cream. Lie on your back, part and bend your knees. Gently insert the applicator into the vagina and push the plunger to place the cream into the vagina.
This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other vaginal products without telling your care team.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Severe diarrhea, fever
Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Vaginal irritation at application site
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
Do not have sex or use vaginal products, such as tampons or douches, while using this medication and for a time after use. Having sex or using vaginal products can make this medication not work as well. Talk with your care team about how long to not have sex or use vaginal products after the last dose.
This medication can damage and reduce the effect of latex-containing products, such as condoms and diaphragms. Avoid use of latex-containing products while taking this medication and for 3 days after the last dose. Get rid of any latex-containing products that are exposed to this medication.
Your clothing may get soiled. To help prevent reinfection, wear freshly washed cotton, not synthetic, underwear.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date. Do not freeze.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
