Clindamycin vaginal cream

What is this medicine?

CLINDAMYCIN (KLIN da MYE sin) is a lincosamide antibiotic. It is used to treat vaginal infections caused by certain bacteria.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the vagina. Place in the vagina using the special applicator supplied with the cream. Wash hands before and after use. Fill the applicator with cream. Lie on your back, part and bend your knees. Insert the applicator into the vagina and push the plunger to expel the cream into the vagina. Wash the applicator with warm soapy water and rinse well. Keep this medicine out of the eyes. If you do get any in your eyes rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Use this medicine for the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional, even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• diarrhea that is watery or severe

• fever or chills, sore throat

• increased thirst

• itching of the vaginal or genital area

• pain during sexual intercourse

• stomach pain or cramps

• thick white vaginal discharge

• unusual bleeding or bruising

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• nausea, vomiting

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other vaginal products without telling your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• diarrhea

• inflammatory bowel disease

• kidney or liver disease

• stomach problems like colitis

• an unusual or allergic reaction to clindamycin, lincomycin, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better in a few days.

Do not use tampons or douches while using this medicine. Do not have sex until you have finished your treatment. Having sex can make the treatment less effective.

After you finish treatment, do not use latex condoms for three days. There may still be some medicine in the vagina. This can damage the latex and make the condom less effective at preventing pregnancy.

Your clothing may get soiled. To help prevent reinfection, wear freshly washed cotton, not synthetic, underwear.