Side effects

Diarrhea is one of the most common side effects of many antibiotics. When taking clindamycin, some people experience severe diarrhea.

Clindamycin can alter the bacterial composition of the colon and cause Clostridium difficile bacterium overgrowth. Toxins produced by this bacterium can cause C. difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD).

CDAD is a severe and potentially fatal infection. If a person develops CDAD while taking clindamycin, their doctor will immediately discontinue their antibiotic treatment.

Other potential side effects of either oral or injectable clindamycin include:

• abdominal pain
• irritation of the esophagus
• nausea and vomiting
• allergic skin reactions
• severe allergic reactions
• inflammation of the vagina
• fluid buildup under the skin
• impeded liver function
• impeded kidney function
• blood disorders
• disrupted function of the immune system
• arthritis

People using a clindamycin solution or lotion for acne may report skin-related side effects, including:

• dryness
• flushing or discoloration
• a burning or stinging sensation
• peeling
• itchiness
• oiliness

For example, the most common side effects of Clindagel for acne are itchiness and skin peeling.

Clindamycin topically is rarely associated with diarrhea or colitis. However, some people do report abdominal pain.

Clindamycin suppositories and vaginal creams may have the same side effects as the injectable or oral forms.

A person may develop colitis if they use a vaginal clindamycin product.

Other adverse reactions to clindamycin suppositories or vaginal creams include:

• vaginal fungal infections
• inflammation of the vagina and vulva
• disorders of the vagina or vulva
• vaginal pain