DALACIN® (Clindamycin) 150 / 300 mg

What is DALACIN® (Clindamycin)?

DALACIN® (Clindamycin) is an antibiotic that treats a variety of serious bacterial infections by stopping the growth of bacteria.

It is available in 150 mg and 300 mg capsules, designed for oral use. This medication is commonly prescribed when infections are caused by bacteria that are sensitive to clindamycin.

Unlike broad-spectrum antibiotics, DALACIN® specifically targets certain types of bacteria, making it a valuable treatment for conditions such as skin infections, bone infections, and respiratory infections.

Since it belongs to the lincosamide class of antibiotics, it works particularly well against bacteria in these areas, but it is not suitable for all types of infections, such as meningitis, due to its inability to penetrate the central nervous system.

How does DALACIN® work?

DALACIN® fights bacterial infections by preventing bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and spread. This helps stop the infection from worsening and allows your immune system to clear the bacteria. It is especially effective against infections in the respiratory system, skin, soft tissues, and bones.

What conditions can DALACIN® treat?

DALACIN® is prescribed to treat a variety of severe infections caused by bacteria that are sensitive to clindamycin, including:

• Ear, nose, and throat infections
• Bronchopulmonary (lung) infections
• Dental infections
• Skin infections
• Urinary tract and genital infections
• Bone and joint infections
• Post-surgical abdominal infections
• Septicemia (blood infections)

However, it is not suitable for treating infections of the brain or spinal cord, such as meningitis, as it does not reach these areas in sufficient quantities.

How should I take DALACIN®?

To ensure DALACIN® works effectively, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

Here are some general guidelines:

• For Adults: The typical dose ranges from 600 mg to 1800 mg per day, divided into 2 to 4 doses throughout the day.
• For Children (over 6 years old): The dosage is based on body weight, typically 8 mg to 25 mg per kg of body weight per day, divided into 3 or 4 doses.

Key Tips for Taking DALACIN®:

• Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water to help with absorption and to prevent throat irritation.
• Stick to the prescribed schedule: Take the medication at evenly spaced times during the day. This ensures that the levels of DALACIN® remain steady in your body, which is important for fighting the infection.
• Don’t skip doses: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
• Complete the full course: Even if you start feeling better, continue taking DALACIN® for the entire prescribed duration. Stopping the treatment early can cause the infection to come back or worsen.

What precautions should I follow when using DALACIN®?

Before taking DALACIN®, inform your doctor if you:

• Are allergic to clindamycin, lincomycin, or any of the ingredients in the capsules
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

Do not use DALACIN® if you have a known intolerance to lactose or certain sugars, as the capsules contain lactose. If you experience symptoms like swelling, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash while taking the medication, seek medical attention immediately.

Can DALACIN® cause side effects?

Like all medicines, DALACIN® can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Liver function changes

More serious but rare side effects include severe allergic reactions, skin rashes, and inflammation of the colon (colitis). If you experience severe diarrhea, bloody stools, or signs of an allergic reaction, stop taking DALACIN® and contact your doctor right away.

How should DALACIN® be stored?

Keep DALACIN® capsules in a cool, dry place at a temperature below 25°C (77°F), and out of reach of children.

Do not use the capsules after their expiration date, which is printed on the packaging.

Always store the medicine in its original container to protect it from light and moisture.