Clindamycin for Sinus Infection – Is it Ok?

Clindamycin is the general name given to the prescription drug Cleocin, which is an Antibiotic used to treat certain serious bacterial infections.

It works by preventing the bacteria from producing the protein they need to reproduce and spread the infection in the body.

Clindamycin was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the brand name of the original Cleocin in 1970 and was manufactured and distributed by Pharmacia and Upjohn (now Pfizer).

Forms

Clindamycin is an effective drug that comes in the forms of:

• Capsules
• Creams
• Solutions
• Gels
• Injection and more

 

Uses

It can be prescribed to treat a number of infections, such as:

• Serious middle ear infections (acute otitis media)
• Meningitis caused by Streptococcus bacteria
• Bacterial community-acquired pneumonia (CAP)
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Acne

However, also an important use of this medicine is to treat a severe sinus infection caused by bacteria, which is a very common ailment among the population.

The main goal of the management of acute sinusitis through Clindamycin is to eliminate the infection, decrease the severity and prolonging of symptoms and prevent complications.

These goals are achieved through the correct provision of sufficient drainage and an appropriate systematic treatment of the possible bacterial pathogens.

Acute Sinusitis

The risk of sinusitis is increased with the presence of medical conditions like:

• An upper respiratory infection, allergies, asthma, or cystic fibrosis.
• Having an abnormal sinus structure, such as nasal growths, swollen tonsils or a deviated septum.
• Dental infections or,
• Having a weak immune system

 

Symptoms

The symptoms of acute sinusitis can be pinpointed through:

• Fever
• Pain, redness, swelling around the forehead, cheeks or eyes
• Thick yellow or green discharge from the nose
• Dry cough that takes place mostly at night

Treatment and Dosage

The drainage of the sinus can be done through both medicine and through surgery. Doctors treat patients with acute sinusitis in intensive care very meticulously, in order to avoid developing septic complications. A strong antibiotic like Clindamycin is therefore an effective solution to the treatment of sinus without undergoing surgery.

The dosage of Clindamycin should be administered exactly as prescribed by the doctor. It is advised to not use the drug in larger or smaller amounts than recommended. If you miss a dose of Clindamycin, try to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is already time for your next dose, then it is advised to take the next one and not take two doses of the medicine at the same time.

Clindamycin is sometimes given as an injection into a muscle, or injected into the vein with the use of an IV. However, do not self-inject unless do not understand completely the procedure and the disposal of needles.

Clindamycin also has an important usage as an alternative in the treatment of patients who are on a general basis, allergic to penicillin.

Clindamycin can also have some common side effects like a mild rash, itching, stomach pain or nausea. However, if they do not go away and continue to persist, you are advised to seek immediate medical help.