Cleocin Vaginal Cream (Clindamycin Phosphate)

Indications

Cleocin Vaginal Cream is an antibiotic used in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. It contains clindamycin phosphate. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause bacterial vaginosis, a common vaginal infection. Clindamycin works by binding to the bacterial ribosome, which is responsible for protein synthesis in the bacteria. This prevents the bacteria from producing essential proteins that they need to grow and survive, ultimately leading to their death.

Cleocin Vaginal Cream is inserted into the vagina using an applicator and is usually used once a day before bedtime for three to seven days, depending on the severity of the infection. Finish the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is completely cleared and to prevent recurrence.

Use and Dosage

Cleocin Vaginal Cream is a medication used to treat bacterial vaginosis. Cleocin Vaginal Cream is for vaginal use only usually used once a day, preferably at bedtime, for 3 days in a row. Avoid contact of the cream with your eyes. Here are the general steps to use Cleocin Cream:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly to prevent the spread of infection.
2. Open the tube of Cleocin Cream and attach the applicator tip.
3. Lie on your back with your legs bent and feet on the ground or propped up on something comfortable.
4. Insert the applicator into the vagina and gently push the plunger to release the cream.
5. After use, remove the applicator and discard it. Do not reuse the applicator.
6. Wash your hands again to remove any remaining cream.

Follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist when using Cleocin Vaginal Cream to ensure proper use and effectiveness. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for more information.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Cleocin Vaginal Cream (Clindamycin Phosphate):

• Back pain
• Burning, itching, and swelling of the vagina
• Burning, painful urination
• Constipation
• Headache
• Nausea
• Thick, white vaginal discharge
• Vaginal pain
• White patches in the mouth

Serious Side Effects of Cleocin Vaginal Cream (Clindamycin Phosphate):

• Blisters
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Fever
• Hives
• Itching
• Rash
• Stomach pain or cramping
• Watery or bloody stools

Forms and Strength

Cleocin Vaginal Cream (Clindamycin Phosphate) is available in the following forms and strength:

Cleocin Vaginal Cream: Vaginal Cream

• 2%

Cautions

• Allergic reactions: If you are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin, you should not use Cleocin Vaginal Cream.
• Antibiotic resistance: Prolonged or unnecessary use of antibiotics like clindamycin can lead to antibiotic resistance, which means that the antibiotics become less effective in treating infections.
• Overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms: The use of Cleocin Vaginal Cream may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, such as fungi. If this occurs, treatment with the cream should be discontinued.
• Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: The safety of Cleocin Vaginal Cream during pregnancy or while breastfeeding is not well established, so it should be used with caution and only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Interactions with other medications: Cleocin Vaginal Cream may interact with other medications you are taking, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently using.
• Skin irritation: The cream may cause skin irritation, itching, or rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop using the cream and contact your healthcare provider.
• Liver or kidney disease: If you have liver or kidney disease, you should be cautious when using Cleocin Vaginal Cream because the medication may be cleared from your body more slowly than usual, which can increase the risk of side effects.
• Use in pediatric patients: The safety and effectiveness of the cream in pediatric patients have not been established, so its use in this population should be carefully considered.
• Use in elderly patients: Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of Cleocin Vaginal Cream.
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding: If you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding while taking Cleocin Vaginal Cream, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use Cleocin Vaginal Cream if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The safety of Cleocin Vaginal Cream during pregnancy or while breastfeeding is not well established, so it should be used with caution and only if the benefits outweigh the risks.

How long does it take for Cleocin Vaginal Cream to work?

Improvement in symptoms may be observed within a few days of starting treatment but complete the full course of treatment to ensure complete resolution of the infection.

Can I use Cleocin Vaginal Cream if I am allergic to antibiotics?

If you are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin, you should not use Cleocin Vaginal Cream.

Can Cleocin Vaginal Cream be used with condoms or other barrier methods of birth control?

The cream may weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, avoid using these barrier methods of birth control for at least five days after using Cleocin Vaginal Cream.

Resources

• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/050680s010,050767s011lbl.pdf
• https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a609006.html
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-10440-7016/cleocin-vaginal/clindamycin-phosphate-cream-vaginal/details
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=f9be442d-0782-4b93-828f-9ebbf67dbced
• https://www.rxlist.com/cleocin-vaginal-cream-drug.htm