Skip to main content

Clindamycin vaginal

Generic name: clindamycin vaginal [ klin-da-MYE-sin ]
Dosage forms: vaginal cream (2%), vaginal suppository (100 mg)
Drug classes: Topical acne agents, Vaginal anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 28, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is clindamycin vaginal?

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

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

Clindamycin vaginal side effects

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

Clindamycin vaginal may cause serious side effects. Stop using clindamycin vaginal and call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of clindamycin vaginal may include:

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.

Warnings

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

Before taking this medicine

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

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any type of intestinal disorder.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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.

Clindamycin vaginal is not for use in girls who have not yet begun having menstrual periods.

How should I use clindamycin vaginal?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take by mouth. This medicine is for use only in the vagina.

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

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

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.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Clindamycin vaginal will not treat a yeast infection.

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 of vaginal cream tightly closed when not in use.

Clindamycin vaginal dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Acne:

Recommended dose: Apply a thin film to the affected area(s) 2 times a day

Comment:
-More than 1 pledget may be used at the same time (e.g., larger surface areas).

Use:
-Treatment of acne vulgaris

Usual Adult Dose for Bacterial Vaginosis:

Non-pregnant patients:
Vaginal cream: 1 applicatorful intravaginally once at bedtime for 3 consecutive days
Vaginal suppository: Insert 1 suppository intravaginally once a day at bedtime for 3 to 7 consecutive days

Pregnant patients:
-Vaginal cream: 1 applicatorful intravaginally once at bedtime for 7 consecutive days

Comment:
-A diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis should be confirmed prior to initiating therapy.

Uses:
-Treatment of bacterial vaginosis in non-pregnant women
-Treatment of bacterial vaginosis in non-pregnant women and pregnant women in the second or third trimester

Usual Pediatric Dose for Acne:

12 years and older:
Recommended dose: Apply a thin film to the affected area(s) 2 times a day

Comment:
-More than 1 pledget may be used at the same time (e.g., larger surface areas).

Use:
-Treatment of acne vulgaris

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

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, call your doctor before using anti-diarrhea medicine.

What other drugs will affect clindamycin vaginal?

Medicine used in the vagina is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. 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.

Further information

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.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.