clindamycin vaginal

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Pronunciation: klin da MYE sin

Brand: Cleocin Ovules, Cleocin Vaginal, ClindaMax, Clindesse

What is the most important information I should know about clindamycin vaginal?

You should not use clindamycin vaginal if you have an intestinal disorder such as colitis or Crohn's disease.

What is clindamycin vaginal?

Clindamycin is an antibiotic that fights bacteria.

Clindamycin vaginal (for use in the vagina) is used to treat vaginal infections caused by bacteria.

Clindamycin vaginal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using clindamycin vaginal?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin, or if you have:

  • an intestinal disorder such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease; or
  • if you have ever had severe diarrhea caused by using an antibiotic.

To make sure clindamycin vaginal is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have any type of intestinal disorder.

This medicine is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Clindamycin vaginal may contain ingredients that can weaken a condom and cause it to break. An unintended pregnancy could result. Avoid using a condom as a birth control method while you are using clindamycin vaginal and for at least 72 hours (3 days) after your treatment ends.

It is not known whether clindamycin vaginal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

How should I use clindamycin vaginal?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Clindamycin vaginal is usually used at bedtime for 3 to 7 nights in a row.

This medicine comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Wash your hands with soap and water before and after applying this medicine.

Apply clindamycin vaginal using only the disposable applicators provided with the medicine. Use a new applicator each time you use the medicine, then throw the applicator away. Do not clean or reuse a disposable applicator.

Clindamycin vaginal can cause burning or irritation if you accidentally get it in your eyes. If this does happen, rinse with plenty of cool water.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using clindamycin vaginal. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. Clindamycin vaginal will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using clindamycin vaginal.

Do not share this medicine with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

It is best to use clindamycin vaginal only at bedtime, or while you will be resting or lying down.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using clindamycin vaginal?

Avoid having sexual intercourse or using vaginal products such as tampons, lubricants, or douches while you are using this medication.

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, stop using clindamycin vaginal and call your doctor. Do not use anti-diarrhea medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

What are the possible side effects of clindamycin vaginal?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using clindamycin vaginal and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • severe stomach pain, diarrhea that is watery or bloody.

Common side effects may include:

  • vaginal pain; or
  • symptoms of a fungal (yeast) infection--vaginal itching or discharge.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect clindamycin vaginal?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on clindamycin used in the vagina. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about clindamycin vaginal.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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