how long should a course of clindamycin be

by Jeffery Feeney Jr. 3 min read

To help clear up your infection completely, keep using this medicine for the full time of treatment, even if you begin to feel better after a few days. If you have a "strep'' infection, you should keep using this medicine for at least 10 days. This is especially important in "strep" infections.Apr 1, 2022

Full Answer

When to stop taking clindamycin?

Take clindamycin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking clindamycin too soon or skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.

How long after taking clindamycin can you take Maalox?

Tips

  • May be taken with or without food. ...
  • Take exactly as directed and for the duration intended. ...
  • Only use when prescribed by a doctor to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria as improper use increases the risk of resistant bacteria developing. ...

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What antibiotics can you take with clindamycin?

  • Advil (ibuprofen)
  • Aspirin Low Strength (aspirin)
  • Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
  • Cymbalta (duloxetine)
  • erythromycin.
  • Fish Oil (omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids)
  • Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine)
  • Flonase (fluticasone nasal)

How fast can you infuse clindamycin?

  • severe diarrhea with watery or bloody stools (up to 2 months after your treatment)
  • stomach pain or cramps
  • rash
  • peeling or blistering of the skin
  • swelling of the eyes, face, throat, tongue, or lips
  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • hoarseness
  • hearing loss, roaring or ringing in the ears, or dizziness

How long is a course of clindamycin?

You'll likely be prescribed a seven-day course of clindamycin for a tooth infection. On each of those seven days, you'll likely need to take a dose every six hours or so. There may be one or two capsules in a dose.

Can I take clindamycin for 7 days?

Adults and children 13 years of age and older who are pregnant—One applicatorful (100 milligrams [mg]) inserted into the vagina once a day for 7 days, usually at bedtime,. Children younger than 13 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Can you take clindamycin for 10 days?

Remember to keep any routine appointments with your doctor. This is so your progress can be monitored. If you are taking clindamycin for more than 10 days, your doctor will want you to have some blood tests to check that your kidneys and liver are working well.

How many days does it take clindamycin to work?

How soon will it start working? Clindamycin will start showing its effectiveness within a day or two. If your tooth infection symptoms don't get any better after taking your medication for a few days, consult your doctor.

Is clindamycin 300 mg a strong antibiotic?

Official answer. Clindamycin is a strong broad-spectrum antibiotic, typically prescribed for serious infections, such as life-threatening methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) skin infections.

What is the major side effect of clindamycin?

Serious skin reactions can occur with this medicine. Check with your doctor right away if you have blistering, peeling, or loose skin, red skin lesions, severe acne or skin rash, sores or ulcers on the skin, or fever or chills while you or your child are using this medicine.

Is 5 days of clindamycin enough?

Treatment should last 7-10 days depending on the prescription and severity of infection. Clindamycin dosage for children is based on body weight and is determined by a healthcare provider, and is also generally taken 3-4 times per day.

When can I stop taking clindamycin?

If you have a painful skin rash, blisters, red skin, fever, or body aches, stop taking clindamycin (Cleocin) and call your healthcare provider right away.

What is the strongest antibiotic for tooth infection?

Amoxicillin is usually the first choice for tooth infection treatment. If your tooth infection is more serious, your dentist may prescribe a combination of amoxicillin and another drug called Clavulanate. This combination is stronger and more effective against tooth infections.

What should I avoid while taking clindamycin?

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Clindamycin (Cleocin Hcl)? Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, call your doctor. Do not use anti-diarrhea medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

What is the strongest antibiotic for bacterial infection?

Vancomycin, long considered a "drug of last resort," kills by preventing bacteria from building cell walls.

Why can't you lie down after taking clindamycin?

Official answer. You should avoid lying down after taking the antibiotic clindamycin because it may prolong the time it takes for the medication to move through your esophagus into your stomach, potentially irritating your esophagus.

Does clindamycin cause C difficile?

Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C difficile. -Because clindamycin therapy has been associated with severe colitis which may end fatally, it should be reserved for serious infections where less toxic antimicrobial agents are inappropriate.

Is clindamycin used for anaerobic infections?

Usual Adult Dose for Bacterial Infection. -In the treatment of anaerobic infections, parenteral clindamycin should be used initially and then patients changed to oral therapy when clinically appropriate.

Can clindamycin cause diarrhea?

US BOXED WARNING (S):#N#-Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with the use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including clindamycin and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C difficile.#N#-Because clindamycin therapy has been associated with severe colitis which may end fatally, it should be reserved for serious infections where less toxic antimicrobial agents are inappropriate. It should not be used in patients with nonbacterial infections such as most upper respiratory tract infections.#N#-C difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use.#N#-Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.#N#Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

What is clindamycin used for?

Clindamycin is an antibiotic that may be used to treat a wide range of infections including those involving gram-positive and anaerobic bacteria (anaerobic means living without air). Clindamycin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, which inhibits bacterial growth.

How long does it take for a syringe to peak?

Tell your doctor about any other medications you take, including those brought over the counter from a pharmacy, supermarket, or health store. 6. Response and effectiveness. Peak concentrations are reached within 45 minutes; however, it may take up to 48 hours before infection-related symptoms start to abate. 7.

Is rifampin a substrate of CYP3A4?

rifampin. vaccinations, such as BCG and Cholera. Clindamycin is a substrate of CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent, CYP3A5. It is a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4. Drugs that inhibit CYP3A5=or 3A4 may cause increase blood concentrations of clindomeyin. CYP3A4 or 3A5 may decrease plasma concetrations of clindamycin.

Can you take clindamycin with food?

For serious anaerobic infections, the parenteral route is usually used initially but should be switched to the oral route as soon as the patient's condition allows. May be taken with or without food. Generic clindamycin is available. 3. Downsides.

Is clindamycin good for diarrhea?

The risk of C. difficile -associated diarrhea may be higher with clindamycin compared with some other antibiotics.

Does clindamycin help with viruses?

Clindamycin does not treat infections caused by viruses, such as a cold or the flu.

Is clindamycin teratogenic?

Animal studies do not reveal any evidence of teratogenicity and there is not enough data in humans to make a recommendation. Clindamycin is secreted into breast milk and may potentially cause adverse effects on the GI flora of breast-fed infants.

How long does clindamycin treatment last?

A course of treatment usually lasts for a week or so, although it will be for longer than this if you are taking clindamycin for a bone infection. If you still feel unwell after finishing the course of treatment, go back to see your doctor.

How often should I take clindamycin?

Do not open the capsules. Try to space out your doses evenly throughout the day - so ideally, take a dose every six hours. You can take clindamycin before or after meals. If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember.

What is clindamycin used for?

Available as. Capsules. Clindamycin is an antibiotic which is given to treat serious bacterial infections. It is useful for treating joint and bone infections (such as osteomyelitis ), and infections in the abdomen. It is also used to treat tooth infections where other antibiotics have not worked.

How much clindamycin should I take daily?

Take clindamycin exactly as your doctor tells you to. The usual dose for adults is 150-300 mg (one or two capsules) four times daily , but the dose may be less than this if it is prescribed for a child.

How long does it take for clindamycin to work?

This is so your progress can be monitored. If you are taking clindamycin for more than 10 days , your doctor will want you to have some blood tests to check that your kidneys and liver are working well. Some people develop thrush (redness and itching in the mouth or vagina) after taking a course of antibiotics.

Is clindamycin harmful to babies?

(Although clindamycin is not known to be harmful to babies, it is still important that you tell your doctor if you are expecting or breastfeeding a baby.)

Can clindamycin cause side effects?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with clindamycin. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

What are the symptoms of clindamycin?

chest tightness. abdominal cramps. vomiting. diarrhea. passing out. feelings of doom. While the risk of having an anaphylactic reaction to clindamycin is low, it’s important to know how to recognize the signs. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

What are the side effects of clindamycin?

Taking clindamycin can cause a range of side effects, including: 1 diarrhea 2 nausea or vomiting 3 loss of appetite

What is clindamycin used for?

Clindamycin is a lincosamide type of antibiotic that’s used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including infections of the teeth. It’s generally given as an oral antibiotic, but you may need intravenous clindamycin for severe tooth infections. Left untreated, tooth infections can quickly spread to other areas, ...

What is the best antibiotic for tooth infection?

Penicillin antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, are most commonly used to treat tooth infections. Clindamycin can be useful if you’re allergic to or haven’t had success with penicillin antibiotics. It’s also active against a variety of bacteria. This is important when it comes to tooth infections, which often involve several types ...

How long do antibiotics last?

Your course of antibiotics should last about a week and you’ll typically have to take one or two pills every six hours. To prevent the infection from coming back, make sure to take the full dose of antibiotics as prescribed. Last medically reviewed on February 14, 2019.

How long does it take for anaphylaxis to appear?

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a potentially life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes of taking a drug and can include: itchy hives and welts. swollen throat, which can cause wheezing and trouble with breathing or swallowing. chest tightness.

How to reduce nausea and vomiting while taking clindamycin?

loss of appetite. You can help to reduce nausea and vomiting by sticking with a simple, bland diet while taking clindamycin. Avoid spicy or rich foods that may irritate your stomach. Taking a probiotic, which may help to replenish beneficial bacteria in your gut, may also minimize side effects.

Before Using

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Proper Use

Before applying this medicine, thoroughly wash the affected areas with warm water and soap, rinse well, and pat dry.

Precautions

If your acne does not improve within about 6 weeks, or if it becomes worse, check with your health care professional. However, treatment of acne may take up to 8 to 12 weeks before full improvement is seen.

Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

4 Answers

The drug starts work right away within about 30 min - 1 hour of you taking it. This is different from how quickly you'll notice it working. Typically you should see a noticable improvement within 2 - 3 days, but this depends on what you are taking it for.

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Usual Adult Dose For Bacterial Infection

  • The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so. The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of...
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Usual Pediatric Dose For Bacterial Infection

Liver Dose Adjustments

Precautions

Other Comments

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No adjustment recommended; however, liver function monitoring is recommended in patients with severe liver disease. Accumulation of clindamycin has not been demonstrated when dosed every 8 hours.
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Further Information

  • US BOXED WARNING(S): -Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with the use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including clindamycin and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C difficile. -Because clindamycin therapy has been associated wi…
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How It Works

  • Administration advice: -Oral clindamycin should be administered with a full glass of water (to avoid esophageal irritation) and may be taken with or without food. -Intravenous doses should be diluted and administered as an infusion over 10 to 60 minutes, at a rate not exceeding 30 mg/min. -Intramuscular doses should be administered as a deep IM inj...
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Upsides

Downsides

  • Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Medical Disclaimer
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Bottom Line

Tips

  1. Usually reserved for the treatment of serious infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria, such as those occurring in the abdomen, gastrointestinal tract, lower respiratory tract, on the sk...
  2. Effective against several gram-positive and anaerobic bacteria, including susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains only), Streptococcus pneumoniae (pe…
  1. Usually reserved for the treatment of serious infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria, such as those occurring in the abdomen, gastrointestinal tract, lower respiratory tract, on the sk...
  2. Effective against several gram-positive and anaerobic bacteria, including susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains only), Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-s...
  3. For infections caused by susceptible strains of streptococci, pneumococci, or staphylococci, clindamycin is usually reserved for penicillin-allergic patients or other patients in whom penicillin is...
  4. Available as an oral capsule, oral solution, and parenterally (may be administered IM or by int…

Response and Effectiveness

  • If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: 1. Abdominal pain, pain in the esophagus, nausea, vomiting, an unpleasant or metallic taste, skin rashes, and liver function test abnormalities. 2. All antibiotics carry a risk of severe diarrhea caused by an overgrowth of Clostr…
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Interactions

  • Clindamycin is an antibiotic that is usually reserved for treating anaerobic infections or other serious infections caused by gram-positive bacteria in penicillin-allergic people. The risk of C. difficile-associated diarrhea may be higher with clindamycin compared with some other antibiotics.
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References

  1. May be taken with or without food. Take with a full glass of water to stop the capsules from becoming inadvertently stuck in your throat.
  2. Take exactly as directed and for the duration intended. Finish the course of treatment prescribed.
  3. Only use when prescribed by a doctor to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria as i…
  1. May be taken with or without food. Take with a full glass of water to stop the capsules from becoming inadvertently stuck in your throat.
  2. Take exactly as directed and for the duration intended. Finish the course of treatment prescribed.
  3. Only use when prescribed by a doctor to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria as improper use increases the risk of resistant bacteria developing. Clindamycin does not treat infections ca...
  4. Report any instances of severe or persistent diarrhea, occurring either during clindamycin administration or within a few months following discontinuation to your doctor.

Further Information

  • Peak concentrations are reached within 45 minutes; however, it may take up to 48 hours before infection-related symptoms start to abate.
See more on drugs.com