CLINDAMYCIN HCL

Drug Name: CLINDAMYCIN HCL

CLINDAMYCIN HCL DESCRIPTION:
CLINDAMYCIN - ORAL (klin-da-MY-sin)

COMMON CLINDAMYCIN HCL BRAND NAME(S):
Cleocin

CLINDAMYCIN HCL SIDE EFFECTS:
CLINDAMYCIN HCL may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, cramps, bloating and weight loss which should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. If diarrhea becomes a problem, do not take any anti-diarrhea medications. Contact your doctor. Notify your doctor if the following effects occur: rash, hives, fever. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE CLINDAMYCIN HCL:
CLINDAMYCIN HCL: Clindamycin should be taken with food and a full glass of water or other liquid unless your doctor directs you otherwise. The oral solution of this product must be shaken well before using. Solution retains potency for 14 days at room temperature. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Continue to take CLINDAMYCIN HCL until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.

CLINDAMYCIN HCL WARNING:
CLINDAMYCIN HCL should be used only for serious infections because severe, even fatal, intestinal problems (pseudomembranous colitis) can occur. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain, or blood/mucous in your stool. Your doctor will decide if you require other treatment. These symptoms may occur weeks after stopping use of CLINDAMYCIN HCL. Do not use anti-diarrhea products or narcotic pain medications if you have these symptoms. These products may make the symptoms worse. Your doctor will monitor you closely while you are using this medication.

CLINDAMYCIN HCL USES:
An antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections.

CLINDAMYCIN HCL PRECAUTIONS:
Before using CLINDAMYCIN HCL. tell your doctor your medical history especially of: liver or kidney disease, stomach or abdominal problems (colitis), any drug allergies. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using CLINDAMYCIN HCL. CLINDAMYCIN HCL is excreted into breast milk. Though no problems have been noted, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

CLINDAMYCIN HCL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Before you use CLINDAMYCIN HCL, tell your doctor about any other drugs you are taking including nonprescription drugs. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

CLINDAMYCIN HCL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

CLINDAMYCIN HCL NOTES:
CLINDAMYCIN HCL has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.

MISSED CLINDAMYCIN HCL DOSE:
If you should miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose.

CLINDAMYCIN HCL STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Follow label warnings about whether or not to refrigerate liquid forms. Do not freeze. Do not store in bathroom.