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Erythromycin vs. Clindamycin

Erythromycin is an antibiotic that's used to treat a variety of infections caused by bacteria, including certain skin and respiratory infections. The dosage depends on the specific infection you're using it for. The most common side effects are related to the stomach, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Erythromycin comes in two forms that are taken by mouth: oral tablets and an oral suspension.

• Respiratory infections (including upper respiratory tract infection and lower respiratory tract infection)
• Listeria infection
• Skin infections
• Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Diphtheria infection
• Intestinal amebiasis
• Sexually-transmitted infections, STIs (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis)
• Legionnaires’ Disease
• Prevention of rheumatic fever

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Anorexia

• Liver damage
• Life-threatening changes in your heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
• Syphilis in infants
• Severe diarrhea
• Interactions with other medications
• Worsening of myasthenia gravis
• Intestinal blockage in babies

Clindamycin (Cleocin) is a lincosamide antibiotic that's used to treat many different serious bacterial infections, such as strep throat and skin infections. This antibiotic is approved for use in both adults and children. Clindamycin (Cleocin) is available as a capsule and liquid that are taken 3 or 4 times per day, depending on your age and your infection. It's also available as an injection that's given by a healthcare professional. Side effects include stomach upset, itching, and rash.

• Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
• Lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis)
• Stomach infections
• Pelvic and genital tract infections
• Bloodstream infections
• Bone and joint infections - injection form only

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Skin rash
• Itching

• Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
• Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
• Development of drug-resistant bacteria