clindamycin
Clindamycin is used to treat certain types of bacterial infections. Clindamycin is in a class of medications called lincomycin antibiotics. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics such as clindamycin will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Decisions about medication use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking clindamycin affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
According to the MotherToBaby fact sheet, it is not known whether clindamycin can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have questions about clindamycin and fertility, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking clindamycin increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons. The fact sheet notes one study of 249 women with a vaginal bacterial infection in which clindamycin treatment actually reduced the chances of late miscarriage. Any concerns about miscarriage risk should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking clindamycin increase the risk of birth defects?
Every pregnancy starts with a background chance of about 3% for birth defects. According to the fact sheet, several human and animal studies have not shown an increased chance of birth defects with clindamycin, and topical use results in only very small amounts entering the bloodstream. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this information for your situation.
Can taking clindamycin during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
The fact sheet states that several studies have not found an increased chance of problems such as low birth weight. In one study of 249 women with a vaginal bacterial infection, clindamycin treatment was associated with a reduced chance of preterm delivery. Other questions about pregnancy outcomes should be reviewed with your healthcare provider.
Can taking clindamycin during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
The fact sheet indicates that studies have not been done to determine whether clindamycin can cause behavior or learning issues in the child. Because this has not been studied, any concerns are best discussed with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking clindamycin?
The fact sheet explains that clindamycin passes into breastmilk in small amounts when taken orally or by IV, and it might cause some gastrointestinal effects in a nursing baby, such as nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, vomiting, diaper rash, thrush, or rarely bloody stools. Topical use has minimal absorption and is unlikely to reach breastmilk in amounts that affect a baby. Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual breastfeeding questions, and contact your child's provider if you notice symptoms.
Source: National Library of Medicine
clindamycin