Generic Cleocin, capsules

Chemical Name: CLINDAMYCIN

Common uses

This medicine is a lincomycin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.

Before using

Warning: this medicine should be used only for serious infections because infrequently there are severe, rarely fatal, intestinal problems (pseudomembranous colitis) that can occur. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain, or blood/mucous in your stool. Your doctor will decide if you require other treatment. These symptoms may occur weeks after stopping use of this drug. Do not use anti-diarrhea products or narcotic pain medicines if you have these symptoms. These products may make the symptoms worse. Your doctor will monitor you closely while you are using this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including colon conditions, severe diarrhea with mucus or blood, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take this medicine with a full glass (8 oz./240 ml) of water. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medicine. Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Continue to take this medicine even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not take this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are taking this medicine. Laboratory and/or medical tests, such as liver and kidney function tests or complete blood counts, may be done if you are taking this medicine for a long period of time to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor. If moderate to severe diarrhea occurs during or after treatment with this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not treat it with non-prescription (over-the-counter) medicines.

For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. This medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include nausea, vomiting, or mild diarrhea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience severe or continuing diarrhea, diarrhea with mucus or blood, or stomach pain. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.