How do you take Clindamycin phosphate?

For injection, this is usually given by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic: 600mg to 900mg every 8 hours depending on how serious the infection is. For skin gel or cream, apply a thin layer to the affected area (like pimples or infected skin) once or twice daily after cleaning the area. Always complete the full course your doctor prescribed even if you feel better.

What are the side effects of Clindamycin phosphate?

Stomach upset or loose stools, skin irritation or dryness where the cream or gel is applied, mild rash or itching, nausea

Who should not take Clindamycin phosphate?

People who are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin should not use this drug. People with a history of bowel disease such as colitis should avoid it. Do not use it if you have had severe diarrhea from antibiotics in the past.

Prescription

Antibiotic (Lincosamide)

Clindamycin phosphate

Q: What is Clindamycin phosphate used for?

Skin infections, acne (pimples), wound infections, bone infections, serious body infections, infections after surgery, vaginal infections

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Clindamycin phosphate is an antibiotic that works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying, which helps your body fight off infections.

How it works

Binds to the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting peptide bond formation and protein synthesis, thereby exerting a bacteriostatic effect against susceptible aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.

What is it used for?

Skin infectionsacne (pimples)wound infectionsbone infectionsserious body infectionsinfections after surgeryvaginal infections

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Bacterial Skin Infections Bacterial Infections Skin Infections Acne & Pimples Vaginal Thrush & BV

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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Similar drugs

Lincomycin Clindamycin

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What to watch out for

Always complete the full course of this antibiotic even if you feel better, as stopping early can make the infection come back stronger and harder to treat. Buy only from licensed pharmacies and not from roadside vendors, as fake antibiotics are common in Nigeria. Do not share this drug with anyone else, even if they seem to have the same infection.

Common Side Effects

Stomach upset or loose stools
skin irritation or dryness where the cream or gel is applied
mild rash or itching
nausea

Serious Side Effects

Severe or watery diarrhea that won't stop (especially with blood or mucus) could be a dangerous gut infection called C. difficile; stop the drug and see a doctor immediately. Severe allergic reaction with swelling of the face
difficulty breathing
or widespread rash: go to the hospital right away.

Drug Interactions

Do not use clindamycin together with erythromycin as they cancel each other out and neither will work properly. Be careful if you are taking muscle relaxants as clindamycin can increase their effects. Tell your doctor if you are on blood thinners like warfarin as clindamycin may increase the risk of bleeding.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Clindamycin should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor says it is necessary, so consult your doctor before using it.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin should not use this drug. People with a history of bowel disease such as colitis should avoid it. Do not use it if you have had severe diarrhea from antibiotics in the past.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in cars. Keep the cream or gel tightly closed after use. Always keep out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.