Cleocin (Clindamycin) vaginal cream or suppositories
What is clindamycin vaginal cream or suppositories?
CLINDAMYCIN (Cleocin®) is an antibiotic. It treats some vaginal infections caused by certain bacteria. Generic clindamycin suppositories are not yet available. Generic clindamycin vaginal creams are available.
What should my health care professional know before I use clindamycin?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- diarrhea
- inflammatory bowel disease
- kidney disease
- liver disease
- ulcerative colitis
- an unusual or allergic reaction to clindamycin, lincomycin, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
It is important to use this medicine for the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional, even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your prescriber’s advice. Do not stop using this medicine if your menstrual period starts during the time of treatment. Usually, the cream or suppositories are inserted once daily at bedtime.
To use the cream: Clindamycin vaginal cream is only for use in the vagina. Place in the vagina using the special applicator supplied with the cream. Wash hands before and after use. Fill the applicator with cream. Lie on your back, part and bend your knees. Insert the applicator into the vagina and push the plunger to expel the cream into the vagina. Wash the applicator with warm soapy water and rinse well. Usually, clindamycin vaginal cream treatment lasts for 7 days.
To use the suppostitories (ovules): Clindamycin vaginal suppositories are only for use in the vagina. Do not take by mouth. Wash hands before and after use. Read package directions carefully before using. Insert one suppository in the applicator tip. Lie on your back. Gently insert the applicator tip high in the vagina and push the plunger to release the suppository into the vagina; gently remove the applicator. Wash the applicator well with warm water and soap. Use at regular intervals as directed by the package or your health care professional. The clindamycin suppository treatment is usually for 3 days.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine 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 drug(s) may interact with clindamycin?
Interactions with medicines taken by mouth are unlikely. Tell your prescriber or health care professional about any other vaginal products you are using. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from using clindamycin?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
- itching of the vaginal or genital area
- thick white vaginal discharge
- pain during sexual intercourse
Other serious side effects are unlikely from the use of the vaginal cream, but include:
- diarrhea that is watery or severe
- fever or chills, sore throat
- increased thirst
- stomach pain or cramps
- skin rash
- unusual bleeding or bruising
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
What should I watch for while taking clindamycin?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not begin to improve in a few days.
Do not use tampons or douches while using this medicine.
Your clothing may get soiled. To help prevent reinfection, wear freshly washed cotton, not synthetic, panties.
Do not have sex until you have finished your treatment. Having sex can make the treatment less effective.
After you finish treatment, do not use latex condoms for three days. There may still be some clindamycin in the vagina; this can damage the latex and make the condom less effective at preventing pregnancy.
Keep clindamycin out of the eyes; if you do get any in your eyes rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Related entries
Monthly Archives
Syndicate
Allergies
