Clindamycin and Diarrhea: What Users Say

• LSS...
• February 2, 2020

For Bacterial Infection "While dealing with a gum infection and root canal, I was prescribed clindamycin. I read reviews online and was terrified by what people were saying, but I ended up taking them anyway. Take these with a meal (not water) to avoid aftertaste. Some people complained about diarrhea, but other than going to the bathroom more often, I didn't have much of an issue. I took probiotics, drank kombucha, lots of water, and yogurt to keep my flora healthy and mitigate the side effects. In the morning before breakfast, my mouth did taste awful, but the taste went away after eating. Again, this is one of those antibiotics where extra care is needed to avoid intense side effects. If you are reading this, do try what I did, and perhaps you'll be able to feel better with minimal side effects."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 13, 2019

For Bacterial Infection "I haven't felt the same after taking clindamycin. I had to take it four times a day for 8 days. I was told to stop early because it was causing diarrhea. I was taking it as I developed an infection twice, after my wisdom teeth removal. First I took amoxicillin when it was done, then when I got the first infection I took that again. Then, it came back and I was prescribed clindamycin. I think my brain was affected. I don't feel mentally okay. I'm easily stressed and I easily cry. I have major anxiety and I get really sad. I can't do anything without feeling crazy. I don't feel like myself."

• Rls...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 5, 2020

For Bacterial Infection "I was prescribed Clindamycin for a severe tooth infection. I’ve been taking it for 7 days, every 8 hours. Almost done. It has cleared up my infection. I didn’t find it hard on my stomach, but it did give me diarrhea. One night, I did take it and it caused severe heartburn, but only that one time. I’m glad it took away my pain, but my family doctor told me it is very, very strong and causes abdominal issues. So be careful! It’s not for everyone."

• Ann...
• September 15, 2013

For Bone infection "Taking clindamycin has been difficult for me. It's caused nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain. But it's also been the only thing to clear up my jawbone infection. They gave me two other types of antibiotics before this, and neither helped. If you can endure the unpleasant side effects, it's a good medicine for it."

• Dal...
• August 20, 2016

For Skin or Soft Tissue Infection "Had a deep gum abscess, not tooth, but gum, from a piece of popcorn. Dr. Rx was 300 mg 3x a day, for 10 days. No problems. You HAVE to drink tons of water when taking the pill and all day long. Why? To flush out the toxins. When STRONG antibiotics work, they KILL the good and bad bacteria. That die-off is called a 'Herxheimer' reaction. Thus, the headaches, eye aches, etc. So, up your intake of WATER to help. Then, take probiotics, kefir, and yogurt because the GOOD bacteria are killed off in your gut, hence severe diarrhea. C. diff is a dirty hospital issue, it's their big secret, but probiotics will reestablish the GOOD bacteria, very quickly. Hang in there, it is the best medicine ever."

• eel...
• November 3, 2013

Clindamycin for Bacterial Infection "Tooth infection. After taking 5 of the 28 pills, I had the worst heartburn of my life and could not even lay down. After 10 of them, I ended up in the ER with chest pains, excruciating heartburn, diarrhea, and the itchiest hives from head to toe. They were, however, very effective at clearing up the infection, which in turn reduced the pain in my mouth significantly. So for me, where tooth pain is almost intolerable, it was a trade-off I accept."

• Cra...
• January 18, 2019

For Skin or Soft Tissue Infection "I've never posted a review before but wanted to reassure people that are freaking out reading the scary reviews that not every experience is like that. I was having panic attacks when taking the pills because of reviews I'd seen. My anxiety about it made me feel sick this week, not the pill. Made sure to drink 2 big glasses of water when taking a pill... ate before taking it... had yogurt every day and didn't lay down or recline for one hour after taking it. Other than getting mild diarrhea a few times, I haven't experienced any other side effects. I was taking 300 mg/3x a day for 7 days. I take my last pill tonight."

• Dr ...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 16, 2019

For Bone infection "Clindamycin works if taken correctly. To remedy the side effects from not only this antibiotic but really any antibiotic, first, it is imperative to replenish the vital gut bacteria killed by antibiotics by eating probiotic-packed foods. This will deter stomach aches, acid reflux, and usually will prevent diarrhea, however, if it still happens, add lots of fiber-rich foods and leafy greens to one's diet. One must also have the not-so-common-nowadays common sense when it comes to understanding instructions. If the bottle states 'take 3 times daily,' take it at the same exact time every 8 hours, this evenly spaces it, providing continuous coverage. Lastly, take with food unless instructed otherwise. If not able, milk alone provides similar stomach relief. I hope this helps someone out there!"

• For...
• May 25, 2015

For Bacterial Infection "Had pericoronitis several times and once a small abscess on the gum flap, which partially covers my wisdom tooth. Dose was 300 mg 4x a day for a week, only took 3x a day and took longer to finish the dose. Very effective at taking care of the infection. Side effects: feeling out of it/dizzy, headache/head pressure some days, strange powdery/metallic taste in mouth, diarrhea when I came off the medicine (lasted for months the first time, ate a lot of Activia, and that greatly improved stool). I have anxiety/panic disorder, and these symptoms made it really hard for me to take it. TAKE WITH A LOT OF WATER, STAY HYDRATED. HAVE SMALL MEAL BEFORE + YOGURT. DON'T SKIP MEALS. DO NOT LAY DOWN FOR 30 MINS AFTER TAKING."

• ano...
• August 9, 2013

For Bacterial Infection "Dr. gave me this prescription for a tooth that was abscessed. The swelling had intensified after taking a hot shower, which made it look like I had a softball in my jaw. The pain from it was utterly unimaginable, and I was popping Vicodin and Tylenol 3s like Skittles. I did hear this particular antibiotic is linked to causing a specific disease in the colon because antibiotics do not discriminate when it comes to bacteria. Good or bad, it has to go. However, after taking my first dose of this and ibuprofen, the pain literally disappeared within 30 minutes. It was amazing. I cried, then went to sleep. No terrible side effects other than soft stool."

• Ara...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 27, 2014

For Bacterial Infection "I was given a strep test as I had gotten it for the first time in my life in September of this year, and as my neck and throat were again seeing all the symptoms in October. I was given Clindamycin 300 mg as an alternative to Amoxicillin and Erythromycin, as both just tear my stomach up and give me horrible diarrhea. The doctor said to also take this medicine with a probiotic (acidophilus). I did, and guess what? No tummy troubles. No diarrhea, etc. This is my 5th day, and most of my symptoms are gone. I'd use this antibiotic again if I had to."

• Jen...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 11, 2013

For Bacterial Infection "Oh my goodness, the heartburn. It is almost unbearable. And just like with any other antibiotic, it seems there is diarrhea. Just make sure to drink lots of water with this and pray you get through all the pills as quickly as possible!"

• Mic...
• April 15, 2016

For Bacterial Infection "I am taking clindamycin for a tooth abscess. I take 300 mg every six hours for 15 days. When I first started the antibiotic, my left sinus and eye area were very swollen. Two doses of the clindamycin took away all the swelling and helped with the pain. I am on day 7 of taking it. I am pleased with it because it definitely seems to be getting rid of the infection. I got a few manageable side effects - tiredness, thirst, and a metallic chemical taste in my mouth. Just a little diarrhea too, but many antibiotics do that. Drinking a lot of water and taking a daily probiotic really helps lessen these side effects. Always take the medicine with a full glass of water and food, even if it is just a piece of bread."

• Hea...
• March 5, 2017

For Bacterial Infection "To those who are saying the negative symptoms will not be experienced if you follow instructions, screw you. I'm on this for an infected cat bite. I'm pregnant, it's the only safe antibiotic for me, apparently. I am taking these as prescribed by the doctor and pharmacist with lots of water and food. The heartburn and stomach cramps/diarrhea are hell. And guess what?! On the package, it describes these as known symptoms of the medication. I hate what I am going through. So far, I have found no relief and want nothing more than to stop taking them. I will be following up with my doctor. To those who are lucky enough to not experience the symptoms/side effects? Good on you! Others aren't as lucky."

• Cee...
• April 7, 2020

For Bacterial Infection "Took clindamycin for a week, and my whole digestive system is messed up. Even days after finishing it, my throat burns, I feel like there is a lump of pressure in my chest whenever I try to keep food down, and my stool is very runny, and I stay bloated."

• Jay...
• December 11, 2013

For Skin or Soft Tissue Infection "I was prescribed 10 days of oral capsules of this medication after other medicines did nothing for a moderate skin abscess. Clindamycin is a strong antibiotic, and diarrhea is often a side effect. To help prevent this from happening, I took Acidophilus capsules. Yogurt does not provide enough Acidophilus-you really need the capsules. I took Clindamycin every 6 hours, so in between (that is, 3 hours after the antibiotic) I would take an Acidophilus capsule. I didn't bother getting up in the night to do this. I believe the Acidophilus prevented my getting diarrhea while the antibiotic cured the infection. You can get Acidophilus in health food stores in the refrigerator case."

• Pen...
• July 31, 2015

Clindamycin for Bacterial Infection "Well, just took my last dose of this drug. Good riddance!!! While it was effective in getting rid of the infection, it brought with it some very awful side effects: a strange metallic taste, fatigue, loose stools, pelvic cramping, abdominal pain on both sides, stomach discomfort, mood swings. I had to send my kids to a relative's house to finish this med because I have been feeling awful. No one told me to eat probiotics religiously. I do eat yogurt during any antibiotic treatment, but this specific drug requires a little more than a cup of yogurt a day. Day 2, I started taking Florastor, plus eating plain yogurt a lot. I hope I don't get the diarrhea that others have after stopping it. If you must take this, drink water and take probiotics."

• Pen...
• July 31, 2015

Clindamycin for Bacterial Infection "Well, just took my last dose of this drug. Good riddance!!! While it was effective in getting rid of the infection, it brought with it some very awful side effects: a strange metallic taste, fatigue, loose stools, pelvic cramping, abdominal pain on both sides, stomach discomfort, mood swings. I had to send my kids to a relative's house to finish this med because I have been feeling awful. No one told me to eat probiotics religiously. I do eat yogurt during any antibiotic treatment, but this specific drug requires a little more than a cup of yogurt a day. Day 2, I started taking Florastor, plus eating plain yogurt a lot. I hope I don't get the diarrhea that others have after stopping it. If you must take this, drink water and take probiotics."

• Abs...
• May 23, 2015

For Bacterial Infection "Do not lay down after taking this pill. Felt like my throat caught on fire. Leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Makes me bloated to the point that I can't drink even water! Horrible diarrhea! Itchy skin, sore throat. Tired, nauseous, and moody! It basically put you into menopause! But hey, my infection is gone. Lol."

• Anonymous
• January 18, 2012

For Bacterial Infection "I took clindamycin for 8 days every 6 hours for my tooth infection after amoxicillin failed. I was very concerned at first after I heard about the severe side effects and the fact that I have a very sensitive stomach and had a bad reaction to antibiotics before. Here is what prevented any bad side effects: I took one capsule every six hours, even at night, ALWAYS with food and ALWAYS with a 16 oz. glass of water. After that, I DID NOT lie down for at least 30 minutes. Most importantly, I took probiotics (from the fridge in the health food store) three times a day, two hours after my clindamycin dose. I had minor nausea occasionally and looser stool, but both weren't bothersome at all. It cleared the infection within a week, and I would recommend."

• Mar...
• February 4, 2020

For Bacterial Infection "I took clindamycin for a wisdom tooth that was infected due to food getting inside the gums. I’ve taken amoxicillin, but developed a skin rash and was advised I could be allergic. So, my dentist prescribed me clindamycin. Worst medicine I’ve ever taken. I was fine the first 3 days, felt like nothing was happening. But, I woke up on my 4th day and I couldn’t stand up straight. I had this bloated, gassy feeling in my abdominal area. It felt like I had to use the bathroom after holding it in for too long. I honestly thought it was appendicitis from how bad the pain was. I was crying and didn’t know what to do. I went to urgent care and informed the doctor I was on this antibiotic. She told me, “I’m very surprised, you’re handling this drug very well. This antibiotic can cause abdominal pain.” I called my dentist the same day and told her I’m not taking it anymore. My body didn’t go back to normal for another week. I had loose stool and abdominal pain."

• Anonymous
• April 3, 2010

For Bacterial Infection "I took this drug for two abscesses. After 48 hours, my pain was bearable. After the recommended 6-day course (4 times daily at 150 mg), it took care of the infections. I did experience heartburn and diarrhea one day. Took probiotics to try to counter all the bacteria in my body being destroyed. On the second full day of taking clindamycin, I did experience terrible joint pain in my arms and legs and felt very uncomfortable, but that subsided after a good night's sleep. Overall, I liked the fact that it took care of the infection but am always leery of the side effects and what they can do in the long run. I strongly recommend taking probiotics or a good homemade kefir or yogurt product during and after treatment, take 2-3 hours after each dose."

• Wil...
• July 3, 2017

For Bacterial Infection "I have taken clindamycin (150 mg) (4 times per day) on many occasions, and I started another round today due to a tooth infection. For me, it stops the swelling and pain typically after the first dose. It does give me severe indigestion-like burning at the top of the stomach, as well as a slight case of diarrhea after a couple of days. I have found eating yogurt helps the diarrhea. Drinking lots of water reduces the indigestion. NEVER take on an empty stomach. Soft drinks and caffeinated products are irritants, so basically drink only water while taking this product. I rarely drink alcoholic beverages, but I would recommend NOT imbibing. As for the 300 mg capsules, I will never take that strength again. It made me extremely sick!"

• Tah...
• April 2, 2013

For Bacterial Infection "I had a horrible infection affecting my whole left side gum line. The pain was terrible. My dentist prescribed amoxicillin, and it didn't touch the infection. He then prescribed clindamycin 300mg every 6 hours. Within a couple of days, the pain was so much better, but the side effects are a nightmare. I have diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, and dizziness. I've been watching for C. diff, but I think I just have diarrhea. This medicine is taking care of my infection, but I can't wait until it's done so I will feel better. I recommend it."

• Anonymous
• January 18, 2009

For Bacterial Infection "I found that of all the penicillin-type medications I've ever used, this one gave me little to no stomach upset or that gnawing, always hungry feeling. Diarrhea, yes, and some skin irritation. Overall, a very positive experience."