Key takeaways
Clindamycin (Cleocin) and penicillin (Penicillin VK) are both antibiotics, but they belong to different classes and treat different infections. Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic used for serious infections of the skin, stomach, and lungs, and it is safe for those allergic to penicillin. It must be taken every 6 to 8 hours and carries a risk of severe diarrhea and skin rash. Penicillin VK is a penicillin antibiotic primarily used for strep infections, pneumonia, and certain types of staph infections. It is taken every 6 to 8 hours and is often the first choice for strep infections, but many bacteria are now resistant to it. Unlike clindamycin, penicillin VK is usually cheaper and has fewer side effects, but it is not suitable for those allergic to penicillin or cephalosporins. Both medications should be taken for the full course, even if you start to feel better, to prevent resistance.
