Antibiotics & You
← All antibiotics
Lincosamides

Clindamycin

Serious skin and bone infectionsDental infections only when a prescriber specifically chooses it (not a routine first choice)
Start a diary for this antibiotic

Information follows NICE antimicrobial prescribing guidance and the BNF.

Common side effects

  • Diarrhoea
  • Feeling sick
  • Stomach pain

How often each one happens varies by medicine and product, so check your leaflet. Many are mild, but ask your pharmacist or doctor if they are troublesome or do not settle.

Less common side effects

  • Being sick
  • Rash
  • Taste changes

Get medical help straight away if you notice

  • Severe, watery or bloody diarrhoea — stop and get medical advice urgently (risk of C. difficile)
  • Severe skin reaction

Taking it safely

  • Swallow capsules with a full glass of water while sitting or standing upright.

Report a side effect

You can report any suspected side effect to the UK Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.