What should you know about clindamycin for strep throat?

Strep throat is caused by streptococcal bacteria, while many sore throats have a viral cause and do not benefit from antibiotics. Clindamycin is an antibiotic that interferes with bacterial protein production. A clinician may choose it after considering symptoms, testing, allergies, previous reactions, local prescribing practice, and other medicines. It will not relieve every cause of sore throat, and improvement should not be used to decide whether to stop early.

Take each dose exactly as prescribed and swallow capsules with a full glass of water while upright. Complete the prescribed course unless the prescriber changes it. Tell the clinician about previous antibiotic reactions, bowel disease, pregnancy, and all medicines or supplements. Diarrhoea can occur; contact a clinician promptly for severe, persistent, or bloody diarrhoea, including after the course has finished. Fluids, rest, and suitable pain relief can support recovery.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, facial or throat swelling, inability to swallow fluids, drooling, severe one-sided throat pain, or difficulty opening the mouth. Contact a clinician if fever or throat pain worsens, you cannot keep doses down, or symptoms do not begin to settle as expected. A sore throat with a rash or marked neck swelling also deserves assessment.

Ask whether testing supports strep throat, why clindamycin is being chosen, how to space doses, which side effects require a call, and what to do if you miss a dose.