What is Cleocin Vaginal Cream (Clindamycin) prescribed for?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection of the vagina that happens when there has been a change in the normal balance of bacteria already t here. And while ti does cause any other health problems, it can lead to problems, especially when you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant. It is not the same as a yeast infection, and while it can look similar to other infections, it’s important to find out the cause. At this point it is best to speak with your doctor regarding your condition.

This medication is used to treat bacterial vaginosis. Clindamycin, the active ingredient within Cleocin Vaginal Cream, is an antibiotic that works by putting a stop the bacteria’s growth. For any information on the precautions of use during pregnancy, it is best to speak with your doctor.

This medication comes in the singular dose, which is 2%. Remember your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.

This medication is for vaginal use only.  Before every application, you should wash your hands. Avoid contact with your eyes. If this medication does get into your eyes, flush them out right away with plenty of water.

For directions in use, fill the applicator with the cream according to the directions.  Insert the applicator high up into the vagina and then press the plunger to release the medication.  This medication is usually used once a day at bed time. If you have extra applicators, discard each one after use.  If you only have one, make sure to clean it with warm soapy water and rinse well. Do not boil or use hot water to clean the applicator.

Make sure you lie down as soon as possible after you have injected the medication into the vagina, this will help prevent it from leaking out of the vagina.

Continue to use this medication for the length that has been prescribed to you, regardless if your symptoms disappear after a few days. Discontinuing the medication at an early date may allow the bacteria to continue to grow and it could cause a relapse in the infection.

Before taking this medication, advise your doctor if you are allergic to Clindamycin, or to lincomycin; or if you have any other allergies.

Speak with your doctor of your medical history before taking this medication, especially if you have had any of the following; intestinal diseases (e.g., Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, enteritis, ulcerative colitis).

Do not have vaginal intercourse or use tampons or douches while using this medication because these can cause the cream to not work as well.

The mineral oil in this product can weaken rubber products such as latex condoms and diaphragms and lead to their failure. Therefore, do not use these products during treatment with this medication and for 72 hours after treatment is over. Consult your doctor about other forms of barrier protection/birth control (e.g., polyurethane condoms) during this time.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Oral antibiotics have been used to treat vaginal infections during pregnancy, especially high-risk pregnancies (such as pregnancies with a risk of early childbirth). Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the risks and benefits.

Mild diarrhea or stomach upset may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.

Although unlikely, vaginal pain/burning/itching/discharge may occur or worsen. These symptoms may be due to a new vaginal infection (such as a yeast/fungal infection, trichomonas infection). This medication may rarely cause a fungal infection in another part of your body (e.g., oral thrush). Contact your doctor if you notice a change in vaginal discharge, white patches in your mouth, or other new symptoms.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: pain when you urinate, lower back pain, menstrual problems, abnormal vaginal bleeding.

A small amount of this medication may be absorbed into your bloodstream and may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea) due to a resistant bacteria. This condition may occur while receiving treatment or even weeks to months after treatment has stopped. Do not use anti-diarrhea or opioid medications if you have the following symptoms because these products may make them worse. Tell your doctor right away if you develop persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, or blood/mucus in your stool.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.