Antibiotic (Lincosamide)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Clindamycin is a strong antibiotic that works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying in your body, helping your immune system fight off infections.
Binds to the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting peptide bond formation and protein synthesis, resulting in bacteriostatic activity against gram-positive cocci, anaerobes, and some gram-negative organisms.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for it.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of clindamycin even if you feel better, as stopping early can make the infection come back stronger and harder to treat. Buy only from registered pharmacies, not roadside vendors or open markets, as fake antibiotics are common in Nigeria. If you develop persistent diarrhoea while taking this drug, stop and see a doctor immediately and do not self-treat with loperamide (Imodium).
Avoid taking clindamycin with erythromycin or azithromycin as they can cancel each other out and neither will work properly. If you are on muscle relaxants or drugs used during surgery, tell your doctor as clindamycin can increase their effects. Alcohol does not directly interact, but it can worsen stomach side effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Clindamycin with your other drugs?
Clindamycin should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor says it is necessary. It can pass into breast milk, so consult your doctor first.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the container tightly closed and always store out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.