Clindamycin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic for certain skin infections, dental infections, and some bone or deep-tissue infections. You’ll also see it as a topical gel for acne or as an IV drug in hospitals. It hits specific bacteria that other antibiotics sometimes miss, but it also carries clear risks you should know before you start.
Doctors pick clindamycin when they suspect anaerobic bacteria or streptococcal species that respond well to it. It’s a go-to for dental abscesses and some skin infections, especially when people are allergic to penicillin. In hospitals, clindamycin can be used by IV for more serious infections. That said, not every bug is susceptible. If your infection isn’t improving, your clinician may order a culture to check which drug will work best.
Want a quick rule of thumb? If you have a severe infection, a high fever, spreading redness, or you’re not getting better on oral meds, call your provider. They may switch drugs, give IV therapy, or run tests to find the right treatment.
Common side effects include stomach upset, nausea, and sometimes diarrhea. One serious problem to watch for is Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection. That shows up as severe, watery diarrhea, often with fever and belly pain. If that happens, stop the antibiotic and contact your doctor right away.
Other warnings: allergic reactions (rash, swelling, trouble breathing) need urgent care. Tell your provider about liver problems, since dose adjustments or closer monitoring may be needed. Use clindamycin in pregnancy or while breastfeeding only when your doctor says it’s necessary.
Finish the full course even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Stopping early can let bacteria come back stronger or encourage resistance. Don’t use leftover pills or take someone else’s prescription.
Drug resistance is real. In some communities, strains of MRSA and other bacteria no longer respond to clindamycin. That’s why labs sometimes run a test called a D-test to predict resistance. If resistance is suspected, your provider will pick a different antibiotic.
Topical clindamycin for acne works differently and usually has fewer systemic risks, but keep an eye out for local irritation or allergic reactions. Store oral and topical forms as directed on the label, and keep them away from kids.
Want more on related antibiotics or alternatives? We cover tetracyclines, amoxicillin options, and broader antibiotic choices in other guides. If you’re unsure whether clindamycin is right for your condition, a short chat with a clinician or pharmacist will clear things up fast.
Quick checklist: take the dose as directed, watch for severe diarrhea or allergic signs, finish the course, and call your provider if symptoms worsen. That approach keeps you safer and helps antibiotics keep working for everyone.
