Cleocin Vaginal Cream (Clindamycin Phosphate)

Do’s

• Wash hands thoroughly before and after using the cream.
• Use the applicator as directed to fill it with cream.
• Insert the applicator high into the vagina and apply the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider (usually once daily at bedtime).
• Lie down for a while after application to prevent leakage.
• Continue using the cream for the entire prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve.
• Clean a reusable applicator with warm soapy water and rinse well after each use.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition worsens or persists.

Don'ts

• Don't use Cleocin vaginal cream for anything other than vaginal infections.
• Don't let the cream come into contact with your eyes. If it does, flush thoroughly with clean water and consult your healthcare provider if irritation persists.
• Don't use hot water or boil the applicator for cleaning.
• Don't stop using the cream prematurely, even if symptoms seem to disappear.
• Don't use a discarded applicator. If you have multiple applicators, throw each one away after use.

Common Side Effects:

• Vaginal yeast infection
• Inflammation of the vulva and vagina
• Vulvovaginal disorder
• Trichomonal vaginitis
• Itching
• Skin dryness, burning, itching, and redness
• Numbness or tingling at the application site
• Upset stomach
• Constipation
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Diarrhea
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Skin irritation

Serious Side Effects:

• Serious eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights
• Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing
• Harmful behavior to self/others/property
• Symptoms of infection such as a change in vaginal discharge or new symptoms
• Serious skin reactions such as rash, swelling, redness, and peeling of the skin

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Cleocin vaginal cream,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Disclose any allergies to clindamycin, lincomycin, or other medications to your healthcare provider.

Inform your healthcare provider about any past intestinal problems, especially C. difficile diarrhea, enteritis, or ulcerative colitis.

Avoid vaginal intercourse while using the cream as it can affect its effectiveness.

Don't use tampons or douches during treatment.

Latex condoms and diaphragms can be weakened by the cream, increasing the risk of pregnancy. Discuss alternative birth control methods with your healthcare provider, such as polyurethane condoms.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you're using, including Cleocin vaginal cream, before any surgery.

Cleocin vaginal cream should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. 

Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding as it's unknown if the medication passes into breast milk.

Maintain a list of all medications you take (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal) to share with your healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using Cleocin vaginal cream.