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Cleocin vs. Zithromax

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Cleocin (clindamycin) and Zithromax (azithromycin) are both antibiotics, but they belong to different classes and treat different types of infections. Cleocin (clindamycin) is a lincosamide antibiotic used as a vaginal suppository to treat bacterial vaginosis, while Zithromax (azithromycin) is a macrolide antibiotic taken orally to treat various infections like strep throat, sinus infections, and pneumonia. Cleocin (clindamycin) is only available as a brand-name medication, making it more expensive, whereas Zithromax (azithromycin) is available as a lower-cost generic. Cleocin (clindamycin) is typically used for a short 3-day course, while Zithromax (azithromycin) treatment can last from 3 to 5 days depending on the infection. Cleocin (clindamycin) can cause local side effects like vaginal irritation and yeast infections, whereas Zithromax (azithromycin) can cause stomach-related side effects like diarrhea and nausea. Additionally, Zithromax (azithromycin) has potential risks for heart rhythm problems and liver damage, which are not associated with Cleocin (clindamycin).

Cleocin

(clindamycin)

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Azithromycin

(Zithromax)

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Summary for Cleocin

Prescription only

Cleocin (clindamycin) vaginal ovule is an antibiotic suppository that treats bacterial vaginosis (BV), a type of vaginal infection. This medication can be prescribed for adults or adolescent females who've started their menstrual periods. But it's not approved for people who are pregnant. Cleocin (clindamycin) vaginal suppository is inserted vaginally once daily, typically at bedtime, for 3 days. Side effects aren't common, but can include vaginal discomfort, such as irritation and pain.

Indications for Cleocin

Pros and Cons for Cleocin

Pros

  • Only used once a day
  • Typically only used for 3 days
  • Applicator can be washed and reused for each insertion
  • Can be inserted without using an applicator

Cons

  • Vaginal application can be uncomfortable for some people
  • Might cause vaginal yeast infections
  • Can't use condoms, diaphragms, or tampons during and up to 3 days after treatment
  • Recommended to use at bedtime to prevent medication from leaking

Common Side Effects for Cleocin

Warnings for Cleocin

  • Severe diarrhea
  • Vaginal yeast infections
  • Damage to vaginal contraceptives

Summary for Zithromax

Prescription only

Azithromycin (Zithromax) is a macrolide antibiotic. It's used to treat many types of infections in children and adults, including strep throat, sinus infection, and pneumonia. Azithromycin (Zithromax) is taken by mouth once daily. Typically, the length of treatment ranges from 3 to 5 days, depending on the type of infection you have. For convenience, azithromycin (Zithromax) also comes pre-packaged as Z-Pak. Some of the more common side effects of azithromycin (Zithromax) include diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea.

Indications for Zithromax

Adults

Azithromycin (Zithromax) can treat certain types of:

Children

Azithromycin (Zithromax) can treat certain types of:

  • Ear infections (ages 6 months and older)
  • Pneumonia (ages 6 months and older)
  • Strep throat (ages 2 years and older)
  • Tonsil infections (ages 2 years and older)

Pros and Cons for Zithromax

Pros

  • Taken by mouth once daily
  • Treatment typically lasts only 3 to 5 days
  • Comes as a liquid; good option for people who've trouble swallowing tablets
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Might not be the best choice for people with severe liver problems or certain heart problems
  • Can cause stomach-related side effects, like diarrhea and stomach pain
  • Some bugs might be resistant to azithromycin (Zithromax)

Common Side Effects for Zithromax

Adults

  • Diarrhea (4-5%)
  • Nausea (3%)
  • Stomach pain (2-3%)

Children

  • Diarrhea (2-6%)
  • Vomiting (1-6%)
  • Stomach pain (1-3%)

Warnings for Zithromax

  • Severe allergic and skin reactions
  • Liver damage
  • Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)
  • Possible higher risk of death from heart problems
  • Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
  • Worsening of certain muscle problems (myasthenia gravis)
  • Doesn't treat syphilis

Prices with our coupons for Cleocin vs. Zithromax

Price Card Drug Icon
Clindamycin21 capsules / 300mg
$14.57-
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Price Card Drug Icon
Azithromycin1 z-pak / 6 tablets of 250mg
$9.38$35.99
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