What is a common side effect of using clindamycin?

Clindamycin is an antibiotic that is commonly used to treat various bacterial infections, particularly those caused by anaerobic bacteria and certain strains of staphylococcus. One notable side effect associated with its use is the risk of Clostridium difficile infection, often referred to as C. difficile or C. diff infection.

This occurs because antibiotics like clindamycin can disrupt the normal bacterial flora in the intestines, leading to an overgrowth of Clostridium difficile. This bacterium can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potentially life-threatening colitis. The mechanism behind this involves the imbalance created in the gut microbiome, which is crucial for maintaining intestinal health and preventing pathogenic growth.

Recognizing C. difficile infection as a common side effect of clindamycin usage is important for clinical practice, as patients should be monitored for gastrointestinal symptoms following treatment with this antibiotic. This awareness contributes to more cautious prescribing practices and patient education regarding the signs and symptoms of C. difficile infection, allowing for timely intervention if it occurs.