Clindamycin

Uses
Clindamycin ABM (Clindamycin) fights bacteria that infect the body. It belongs to a group of medicines called lincomycin antibiotics, and it is effective at killing a type of bacteria referred to as anaerobic bacteria (bacteria which do not require oxygen). It is also able to be used as a substitute to penicillin in patients who are allergic to penicillin, and it can also be used to treat bacterial infections caused by staphylococci which are resistant to penicillin.

Infections this medicine may be prescribed to treat include osteomyelitis, infected ulcers or abscesses, cellutitis, enteritis, joint infections as well as other types of bacterial infections which have not been listed here. In some cases, it may be used to prevent bacterial endocarditis caused by surgery in patients with heart problems or artificial heart valves.

Dosage and Administration
Clindamycin ABM (Clindamycin) comes as capsules, which are taken by mouth, alongside a glass of water. The exact dosage you will need to take varies, and depends on how serious the infection is. Your doctor will tell you how much to take when prescribing this medicine. Adult patients who are treating an infection which is moderately severe may be directed to take 150mg to 300mg every 6 hours. A severe infection may require a dose of 300mg to 450mg, taken every 6 hours. Treatment must continue for the entire prescribed period, unless told otherwise by the prescribing doctor.

Side effects
If you take Clindamycin ABM (Clindamycin) capsules, it is possible that some side effects may occur, such as:

• Vaginitis
• White vaginal discharge
• White patches around the mouth
• Pain in the joints
• Abdominal pain, indigestion

It is strongly recommended that you inform the prescribing doctor of any side effects which you notice. Severe reactions are also possible, and will require immediate medical attention. Examples include bloody diarrhoea, fever, severe blistering of the skin, burning sensation in the eyes and changes in urination. This is not a complete list of reactions, and other side effects which have not been listed here may also occur.

Precautions
There is a possibility that taking this medicine can cause colitis (bowel inflammation). It may also cause a severe condition affecting the intestines known as clostridium difficile associated diarrhoea. If you notice severe diarrhoea, bloody stools or any other related symptoms during treatment or in the months after you finish treatment, you should consult your doctor immediately.

Before you can take this medicine, you must tell your doctor if you have a history of suffering from diseases affecting the kidneys, medical conditions related to the liver, colitis, asthma, hay fever or eczema.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Clindamycin ABM (Clindamycin) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.