Clindamycin

Antibiotic
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Clindamycin is a antibiotic found in 3 medicines sold in India, such as Clindac A, Deriva CMS, Clingen. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

As a gel, treats acne; capsules treat skin, bone and dental infections.

How it works

An antibiotic used as a gel for acne (often with benzoyl peroxide), and as capsules for skin, bone, dental and some other infections.

How to take it

Gel: thin layer once or twice a day. Capsules: with a full glass of water, every 6 to 8 hours.

Common side effects

  • Diarrhoea (capsules)
  • Skin dryness (gel)

Get medical help straight away if

  • Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, even weeks later (C. difficile)
  • Rash

Be careful

Capsules can cause severe diarrhoea; tell your doctor if it happens.

Other medicines and interactions

Erythromycin weakens it. Do not use the gel alone for long; combine with benzoyl peroxide to prevent resistance.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed.

Brands of Clindamycin (1)

Clindac A

Combination medicines that contain Clindamycin (2)

ClingenDeriva CMS

Common questions

What is Clindamycin used for?

As a gel, treats acne; capsules treat skin, bone and dental infections.

How does Clindamycin work?

An antibiotic used as a gel for acne (often with benzoyl peroxide), and as capsules for skin, bone, dental and some other infections.

How should I take Clindamycin?

Gel: thin layer once or twice a day. Capsules: with a full glass of water, every 6 to 8 hours.

What are the side effects of Clindamycin?

Common: Diarrhoea (capsules), skin dryness (gel). Get help straight away for: Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, even weeks later (C. difficile), rash.

Does Clindamycin interact with other medicines?

Erythromycin weakens it. Do not use the gel alone for long; combine with benzoyl peroxide to prevent resistance.

Is Clindamycin safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed.

Does Clindamycin need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Clindamycin?

Clindac A, Clingen, Deriva CMS.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

🔎 Search another medicine

For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.