Clindamycin Capsules – What You Need to Know

If you’ve been handed a prescription for clindamycin capsules, you probably have questions. Is it the right drug for your infection? How often should you take it? And what should you watch out for? This guide breaks down the basics so you can use clindamycin safely and get the best results.

How Clindamycin Works and When It’s Prescribed

Clindamycin is an antibiotic that stops bacteria from making proteins they need to grow. Doctors usually pick it for skin infections, dental abscesses, bone infections, and certain lung problems when other antibiotics might not work.

The drug works well against anaerobic bacteria—those that thrive without oxygen—and some gram‑positive bugs like Staphylococcus aureus. If you have a nasty bite wound or a severe tooth infection, your doctor may choose clindamycin because it reaches deep tissue quickly.

Dosage, Side Effects, and Safe Buying Tips

The typical adult dose is 150 mg to 450 mg every six hours, depending on how serious the infection is. Kids get a lower amount based on weight. Always follow your doctor’s instructions; skipping doses can let bacteria become resistant.

If you have liver problems or are taking certain medications (like erythromycin), your doctor might adjust the dose. Don’t try to change the schedule yourself—talk first.

Common side effects include mild stomach upset, diarrhea, and a metallic taste. More serious issues, like severe watery stools that could signal C. difficile infection, need immediate medical attention.

Before you start clindamycin, tell your doctor about any allergies, especially to antibiotics, and any other drugs you’re using. Alcohol isn’t directly dangerous with clindamycin, but it can worsen stomach irritation.

When buying clindamycin capsules online, pick a reputable pharmacy that requires a prescription. Look for sites that show a physical address, have clear privacy policies, and offer secure payment options. Avoid any store that sells the drug without asking for a doctor's note—it could be counterfeit or unsafe.

Keep your medication in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one; then just skip the missed dose—don’t double up.

Finally, finish the entire prescription even if you feel better early on. Stopping too soon lets surviving bacteria grow back and can cause the infection to return.