How to use
It is important to take Cleocin (Clindamycin) exactly as it was prescribed for you by your healthcare provider. Don't take Cleocin (Clindamycin) in larger doses or at different times than directed by your doctor. Take exactly the same dose of Cleocin (Clindamycin) each time, with a full glass of water to prevent throat irritation. Do not stop taking Cleocin (Clindamycin) until you have run the full course prescribed to you by your doctor. Even if your symptoms stop before you are finished, it is important to continue for the full length of time.

Cleocin (Clindamycin) should not be used to treat viral infections like the flu or the common cold. To be sure that there are no harmful side effects, you may need to test your blood, kidneys and/or liver. Do not miss scheduled visits with your healthcare provider. If you need any kind of surgery it is important to inform the surgeon that you are taking Cleocin (Clindamycin). In this case you may have to discontinue using Cleocin (Clindamycin) for a short period of time. 

Overdose
Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suspect that you have used too much Cleocin (Clindamycin). Symptoms of a Cleocin (Clindamycin) overdose can include seizures (convulsions), changes in behaviour and depression.

Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Cleocin (Clindamycin), take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you are nearing the time of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take your next scheduled dose at the appointed time. Do not take extra medication to make up for a missed dose or take two doses at one time because this can cause unwanted side effects.

Notes
Do not share your prescription of Cleocin (Clindamycin) with others, since they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by this drug.

Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C), away from light and moisture. KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Important note
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed that the taking of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you.

* Illustrations are for graphic purposes only and the ordered medication may differ in appearance.

Precautions
Do not use Cleocin (Clindamycin) if you are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin (Bactramycin, L-Mycin, Lincocin).

Before using Cleocin (Clindamycin), tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• Colitis, Crohn's disease or any other intestinal disorder
• A kidney disease
• A liver disease
• A history of asthma, eczema or allergic skin reactions

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Cleocin (Clindamycin), or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Drug Interactions
Do not use Cleocin (Clindamycin) if you are also taking erythromycin (E-Mycin, E.E.S., Eryc, Ery-Tab, Robimycin, and others).

There may be other drugs that can affect Cleocin (Clindamycin). Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction:

• Hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Cleocin (Clindamycin) and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• Diarrhea that is watery or bloody
• Fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms
• Nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Urinating less than usual or not at all
• Fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash

Keep taking Cleocin (Clindamycin) and talk to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:

• Mild nausea or stomach pain
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Mild skin rash or itching
• Irritation in your throat

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effects that seem unusual or that are especially bothersome.