Clindamycin hydrochloride
Brands: Antirobe, Cleocin
Clindamycin hydrochloride is an antibiotic used in dogs and cats to treat bacterial infections.
Used for
- skin infections
- dental infections
- bone infections
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Duration
- 7-10 days
- Storage
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 5-10 mg/kg every 12 hours
dog
- Large dogs
- 5-10 mg/kg every 12 hours
- Small dogs
- 5-10 mg/kg every 12 hours
- Medium dogs
- 5-10 mg/kg every 12 hours
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Clindamycin hydrochloride
Side effects
Common
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Rare
- loss of appetite
Severe
- severe diarrhea or bloody stools
Do not use when
- liver disease
- kidney disease
Interacts with
- erythromycin
- neuromuscular blocking agents
Warnings
- use caution in liver or kidney disease
- not recommended for pregnant or lactating animals
Clindamycin hydrochloride questions
What should I do if my pet misses a dose?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next one. Do not double up on doses.
Can clindamycin be used in pregnant pets?
Clindamycin should be used with caution in pregnant pets. Consult your veterinarian.
How long does my pet need to take clindamycin?
Duration is typically 7-10 days, but follow your veterinarian’s instructions.
Is a prescription required?
Yes, clindamycin is a prescription medication.
Can clindamycin treat viral infections?
No, clindamycin is only effective against bacterial infections.
Full drug detail
Overview
Clindamycin hydrochloride is a lincosamide antibiotic commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat bacterial infections in pets. It is effective against a wide range of gram-positive bacteria and some anaerobic bacteria, making it a versatile choice for treating various infections.
How It Works
Clindamycin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing the bacteria from producing proteins essential for their growth and replication. This action helps to eliminate the bacterial infection in the pet.
Uses & Indications
Clindamycin is used to treat a variety of infections in pets, including:
- Skin infections
- Dental infections
- Bone infections
- Respiratory tract infections It is particularly useful for treating deep-seated infections and is often prescribed when other antibiotics are ineffective.
Dosage Guidelines
Consult a veterinarian for precise dosing, but typical dosages include:
Dogs
- Small dogs: 5-10 mg/kg every 12 hours
- Medium dogs: 5-10 mg/kg every 12 hours
- Large dogs: 5-10 mg/kg every 12 hours
Cats
- Standard: 5-10 mg/kg every 12 hours
Administration
Clindamycin is administered orally. It is available in capsule and liquid forms, allowing flexibility in how it is given to pets.
Side Effects
Common
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Rare
- Loss of appetite
Severe
- Severe diarrhea or bloody stools (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
- Use caution in pets with liver or kidney disease
- Not recommended for use in pregnant or lactating animals unless deemed necessary by a veterinarian
Drug Interactions
Clindamycin may interact with:
- Erythromycin
- Neuromuscular blocking agents Consult a veterinarian to ensure safety when combining medications.
Storage
Store clindamycin at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
FAQ
What should I do if my pet misses a dose?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next one. Do not double up on doses.
Can clindamycin be used in pregnant pets?
Clindamycin should be used with caution in pregnant pets. Consult your veterinarian.
How long does my pet need to take clindamycin?
Duration is typically 7-10 days, but follow your veterinarian's instructions.
Is a prescription required?
Yes, clindamycin is a prescription medication.
Can clindamycin treat viral infections?
No, clindamycin is only effective against bacterial infections.