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Clindamycin cream

  • Clindamycin cream is used to treat certain types of vaginal infection.
  • The most common side effect is itching and irritation where the cream is applied.
  • If you suffer from diarrhoea during treatment with this cream report it to your doctor straight away.

About clindamycin cream

Type of medicine Antibiotic cream
Used for Treatment of bacterial infections of the vagina
Also called Dalacin
Available as Cream

Clindamycin works by killing a wide range of bacteria and some protozoa (similar to bacteria) which can cause infections.

Before using clindamycin cream

Before using clindamycin cream make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have a previous history of sexually transmitted infection (STI) or have been exposed to a partner with a sexually transmitted infection
  • If you are under 12 years of age

How to use clindamycin cream

  • Use clindamycin exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Clindamycin is for vaginal (external) use only. Do not put it in your mouth or swallow it. If you do accidentally swallow it tell your doctor immediately or contact the accident and emergency department of your local hospital.
  • The cream may cause damage to latex condoms and diaphragms, use alternative contraceptive methods during treatment. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Can clindamycin cream cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects What can I do if I experience this
Irritation and itching This may improve as you get used to the cream or may be caused by your condition. If it prevents you from using your medicine then speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Diarrhoea Report this to your doctor straight away.

If you suffer from any other side effects that you think may be caused by your medicine speak with your doctor.

How to store clindamycin cream

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Before using this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
© EMIS 2007 DocID:
3591		 DocRef:
dils3095		 Last Updated:
1 Mar 2007		 Date of Next Review:
28 Feb 2009		 Version:
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PS - Health and Poverty

Perhaps the biggest cause of ill health in the world is poverty. Help to Make Poverty History. For example, why not lend some of your money to disadvantaged communities to enable them to trade their way out of poverty through schemes such as Shared Interest.

See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

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