Clindamycin - Vaginal

Clindamycin is an antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the vagina.

Use Clindamycin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.

It is best to use this medicine at bedtime. Try to use it at the same time each day.

Clindamycin is available as a vaginal cream or as a pessary.

If you have been given the vaginal cream, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Open the tube by puncturing the metal seal with the pointed tip of the cap.
3. Screw the end of the applicator securely onto the tube.
4. Slowly squeeze from the bottom of the tube to get the prescribed amount of cream into the applicator. Use the measurement markings on the applicator to measure the correct dose.
5. Unscrew the applicator.
6. Lie on your back with both knees bent and legs apart.
7. Hold the applicator in the middle portion.
8. Gently insert the applicator into the vagina. Insert only as far as it will comfortably go.
9. Slowly press the applicator plunger until it stops. This will deposit the medication into the vagina.
10. Gently withdraw the applicator.
11. Wash your hands thoroughly after application.

If you have been given a pessary, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Remove the wrapper from the pessary (and the applicator, if this is given).
3. If an applicator is supplied, fix the pessary into the hole at the end of the applicator.
4. Lie on your back with both knees bent and legs apart.
5. Gently insert the pessary into the vagina, either with your fingers or the applicator.
6. Insert only as far as it will comfortably go.
7. If you are using an applicator, press the plunger to release the pessary. Remove the applicator.
8. Wash your hands thoroughly after application.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your infection.

Use Clindamycin at regular intervals. Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.

Apply or insert the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Do not use Clindamycin if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or similar antibiotics such as lincomycin.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• history of inflammatory bowel disease (group of diseases that cause long-term inflammation of the digestive tract)
• history of colitis (inflammation of the lining of the colon [large intestine]) associated with the use of an antibiotic

as Clindamycin may not be suitable for you.

Inform your doctor if you have atopy (an inherited condition associated with heightened immune response to common allergens which may lead to allergic diseases including asthma).

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Clindamycin may damage the latex of certain "barrier" method contraceptives (e.g. condoms, diaphragm). You may wish to discuss alternative birth control methods with your doctor or pharmacist.

You should also avoid the use of other vaginal products (e.g. tampons, douches) while you are being treated with this medicine.

Do not engage in sexual contact until your doctor certifies that you are cleared from the infection.

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.

Clindamycin may cause any of the following side effects: headache, diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain, and vaginal pain, itching or discomfort.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
• severe, persistent or bloody diarrhoea accompanied by stomach pain or fever
• pain or difficulty in passing urine, blood in the urine
• unusual vaginal discharge

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any of these medicines:

• medicines used for blocking pain and sensation, and relaxing the muscles during procedures
• other antibiotics

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Clindamycin.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.