What Is Clindamycin Used For? Your Ultimate Guide

Not all bacteria are harmful. In fact, less than one percent can actually make you sick. Take lactobacteria, for example, they live in our gut and help with digestion.

Those that are infectious, however, can cause various diseases from strep throat to meningitis, some of which may be life-threatening.

Fortunately, they’re treatable with antibiotics such as clindamycin.

What is clindamycin used for? How do you use it? Are there any potential side effects? Find out all of the answers and more by reading the rest of the post!

What Is Clindamycin?

Clindamycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that’s used to treat bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis; this will make it easier for the immune system to eradicate the pathogen.

And like most drugs, it comes in several different forms. For example, you can get it as an oral capsule, intravaginal suppository, or intravenous drip. There are topical formulations as well (e.g. creams, lotions, gels), which are often used to treat skin infections.

Keep in mind, however, that you will need a prescription for the medication. From there, you can get it at the pharmacy, or if you want, you can order Clindamycin online.

What Is Clindamycin Used For?

A doctor may prescribe oral clindamycin for respiratory infections, abdominal infections, or blood poisoning.

Topical clindamycin, on the other hand, is often used for acne. It’ll reduce the number of bacteria on your skin, which will help you keep the lesions under control. For one thing, it’ll help with the redness and swelling.

For the best results, wash the affected area with warm water and soap before using the medication. Apply a thin layer to the skin as directed by your doctor and make sure to cover the entire affected area and not just the pimples themselves; this will help prevent new lesions from developing.

Generally speaking, you’ll see an improvement in your skin within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment. However, it can take up to 12 weeks for you to see the full benefit.

Potential Side Effects

Clindamycin phosphate topical gel is fairly well tolerated. Having said that, it can cause some skin-related side effects in some individuals.

For example, it can cause redness, dryness, and itchiness, especially at the beginning. You may also experience a burning or stinging sensation when you apply the medication.

Rarely, it can also cause headaches, stomach cramps, and bloody stool. Contact your doctor right away if you have any of these side effects as you may need to use a different medication.

Using Topical Clindamycin For Acne

Now you can answer the question, “what is clindamycin used for”. As you can see, it can help treat various infections including acne. If anything, you just have to be consistent about applying the medication.

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