Clindamycin

What is Clindamycin?

Clindamycin is an antibiotic used to treat soft tissue, dental, and bone infections caused by susceptible strains of bacteria. It is used to treat serious infections. Clindamycin may also be used for purposes other than those listed here. Clindamycin is sold per capsule or per tablet and requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

For:

Cats and Dogs

Benefits:

• Effectively treats a wide variety of bacterial infections
• Treats soft tissue infections
• Treats bone and dental infections
• Sold per capsule or per tablet

How does Clindamycin work?

Clindamycin fights infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Clindamycin works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

Cautions:

Antibiotics can cause diarrhea. If the diarrhea is watery or has blood in it, call your veterinarian. Do not use any medication to stop the diarrhea unless instructed by your veterinarian.

Brand Name:

Antirobe (Zoetis), Antirobe Aquadrops (Zoetis), Cleocin (Pharmacia)

Generic Name:

Clindamycin (klin-da-my'-sin)

What is the most important thing I should know about Clindamycin?

Clindamycin is an antibiotic that fights bacterial infections in the body and requires a prescription from your veterinarian. It is used to treat serious infections. Clindamycin may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Clindamycin to my pet?

Do not use this medication if your pet is allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin (Bactramycin, L-Mycin, Lincocin). Do not give clindamycin together with erythromycin (E-Mycin, E.E.S., Ery-Tab, and others). Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease, liver disease, colitis, asthma, eczema, or allergic skin reaction. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.

How should Clindamycin be given?

Give this medication exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not give in larger amounts, or give for longer than recommended by your veterinarian. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Allow plenty of water for your pet to drink. Give this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your veterinarian. Symptoms may get better before the infection is fully treated. Periodic blood testing will be necessary. Kidney and liver function may also need to be tested. Prior to any surgery on your pet, let your veterinarian know if your pet is still taking clindamycin. Store clindamycin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What are the potential side effects of Clindamycin?

Common side effects of Clindamycin in dogs and cats include nausea and vomiting from gastrointestinal irritation.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Clindamycin?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and give the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Clindamycin?

Contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately.

What should I avoid while giving Clindamycin to my pet?

Antibiotics can cause diarrhea. If the diarrhea is watery or has blood in it, call your veterinarian. Do not use any medication to stop the diarrhea unless your veterinarian has told you to do so.

What other drugs will affect Clindamycin?

There may be other drugs that can affect clindamycin. Tell your veterinarian about all prescription and over-the-counter medications you give your pet including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.