Clindamycin vs Azithromycin: Which is Better?

pharmacists at the pharmacy giving information to patient
Both clindamycin and azithromycin belong to a class of drugs called macrolide antibiotics, and are associated with a relatively low risk of side effects. Which drug is better will depend on the type of bacterial infection being treated.

Share This Post

Nearly everyone will contract a bacterial infection at some point or another, whether they experience an ear infection or a sinus infection, among others. 

Broad spectrum antibiotics like clindamycin and azithromycin are often the first line of treatment for certain infections. 

Although the medications are very similar in many ways, there are some slight differences in the types of side effects and drug interactions each antimicrobial medication will cause and what conditions the drugs are best suited to treating. 

When it comes to clindamycin vs. azithromycin, which is better?

Clindamycin vs. Azithromycin: Overview

Clindamycin and azithromycin are two commonly prescribed prescription antibiotics that are used for the treatment of many different types of bacterial infections.

They are considered broad spectrum bactericidals which can target a wide range of pathogens such as mycobacterium and streptococci.

While clindamycin and azithromycin can be effective at treating bacterial infections such as soft tissue infections and even some respiratory tract infections, they should not be used to treat viral infectious diseases like the common cold, the flu, or COVID-19.

Clindamycin is the generic version of the lincosamide brand name drug Cleocin.

It belongs to a class of drugs called macrolide antibiotics, which work by stopping protein synthesis by harmful bacteria that are essential for reproduction and survival. 

Azithromycin is the generic version of Zithromax, a popular brand name antibiotic medication that is most often prescribed as a Zithromax Z-Pak. Like clindamycin, azithromycin belongs to the macrolide antibiotics class of drugs. 

They are also good options to combat both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria for those who are allergic to penicillin and cannot take common drugs such as amoxicillin

Clindamycin vs. Azithromycin: Conditions Treated

Azithromycin and clindamycin are both used to treat bacterial infections in pediatric and adult applications, but they are used to treat slightly different types of infections. 

The most common applications of azithromycin include:

  • Community-acquired pneumonia (in patients aged 6 months and older) caused by bacteria including Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, or Streptococcus pneumoniae 
  • Urethritis and cervicitis due to Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae
  • Acute ear infections (in patients aged 6 months and older) caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • Uncomplicated skin/skin structure infections caused by bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, or Streptococcus agalactiae
  • Genital ulcer disease in men caused by Haemophilus ducreyi (chancroid)
  • Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis caused by bacteria that include Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • Acute bacterial sinusitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • Pharyngitis/tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes in patients who cannot use first-line therapy treatments and are two years of age or older. 

Clindamycin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including:

  • Blood infections
  • Abdominal infections
  • Infections of the female reproductive tract, such as vaginosis
  • Skin infections
  • Septicemia (blood poisoning)
  • Lung infections
  • Bone and joint infections

Clindamycin is also used off label for the treatment of anthrax and malaria, and dentists may prescribe the drug as a preventative treatment for endocarditis, an infection of the lining of the heart that can develop after a dental procedure.

While azithromycin and clindamycin are both used to treat bacterial infections, one drug may be more effective depending on the infection being treated and the bacteria causing the infection.

Clindamycin vs. Azithromycin: Available Forms

Both azithromycin and clindamycin are available in a variety of different forms. Azithromycin is available in the form of a tablet, powder for oral suspension, injection, and eye drops.

Azithromycin is usually taken as part of a Z-pak dosing regimen, which includes a set number of tablets that are taken over the course of five days.

Clindamycin is available in many different forms, including a capsule, injection, vaginal suppository, vaginal cream, topical foam, topical gel, topical lotion, and topical solution.

Clindamycin vs. Azithromycin: Side Effects

The side effects caused by azithromycin and clindamycin are slightly different.

While both drugs can cause gastrointestinal side effects, they can also cause other adverse effects.
 
Common side effects associated with azithromycin include:

Less common side effects of azithromycin include:

  • Rash
  • Nervousness
  • Tongue discoloration
  • Vaginitis
  • Headache
  • Itching
  • Abnormal liver enzyme levels

Rare but serious side effects of azithromycin include:

  • Angioedema
  • Steven-Johnson Syndrome
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Kidney problems
  • Serious allergic reactions
  • Hearing loss

Common side effects that are attributed to the use of clindamycin include:  

  • Stomach pain
  • Vomiting
  • Rash
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Metallic or unpleasant taste in your mouth

Less common side effects:

  • Hives
  • Itching
  • Decreased blood platelets
  • Decreased white blood cell levels
  • Yeast infections

Rare but serious side effects associated with clindamycin may include:

  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome
  • Diarrhea
  • Allergic reactions
  • Abnormal liver function tests
  • Kidney problems
  • Esophageal ulcers

Clindamycin and azithromycin have the potential to disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in the colon.

This can occur because antibiotics often kill the healthy bacteria in the body in addition to harmful bacteria.

Certain bacteria that are known to cause inflammation of the colon, including Clostridium difficile, are particularly susceptible to disruption resulting from the use of antibiotics.

If you start to experience signs of pseudomembranous colitis, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and shock, during or after treatment with clindamycin or azithromycin, make sure to seek medical attention immediately. 

This may not be a complete list of adverse events.

Clindamycin vs. Azithromycin: Drug Interactions

Compared to other prescription drugs, clindamycin and azithromycin are associated with a relatively low rate of drug interactions.

Azithromycin is known to interact with aluminum or magnesium-based antacids, including over the counter heartburn treatments like Maalox and Mylanta. 

When combined with these antacids, azithromycin may be less absorbed into the intestine, which makes the drug less effective and can contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance in certain bacteria.

Clindamycin is known to interact with drugs that act on an enzyme called CYP3A4, which is the same enzyme used to metabolize clindamycin. 

When taken with medications that induce CYP3A4 action, such as rifampin, clindamycin is rendered less effective and may not be able to adequately treat infection.

When used with drugs that inhibit the action of CYP3A4, including ketoconazole, patients are more likely to experience side effects from clindamycin due to increased absorption of the drug.

This may not be a complete list of drug interactions.

YouTube player

Clindamycin vs. Azithromycin: Warnings

Azithromycin should not be used to treat pneumonia in patients who have any of the following medical conditions:

  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections
  • Known or suspected bacteremia (bacteria in the blood)

Additionally, azithromycin should not be used to treat patients who have compromised immune systems, are elderly or disabled, are hospitalized, or who have no spleen (asplenia).

Clindamycin has the potential to cause a severe allergic reaction in some people. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include hives or other serious skin reactions, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or throat. People who have had a previous allergic reaction to clindamycin should not use the medication, as another allergic reaction could be fatal.

People with any of the following medical conditions should speak to their doctor about their medical history and seek medical advice prior to using clindamycin:

  • Gastrointestinal disease or inflammation
  • Allergies to medications
  • Severe liver disease or liver problems
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Age over 65

Clindamycin vs. Azithromycin: Cost

Azithromycin and clindamycin are both sold primarily as generic drugs, but there are brand name forms of each medication available.

Azithromycin and clindamycin are both low cost medications that are covered by nearly all healthcare insurance plans and are available for less than 20 dollars without insurance.

Pharmacy discount cards can provide savings for patients using either generic or brand name azithromycin or clindamycin to treat bacterial infections regardless of their insured status.

Clindamycin vs. Azithromycin: Effectiveness

The relative effectiveness of clindamycin and azithromycin will vary depending on which type of bacterial infection is being treated. Unfortunately, both clindamycin and azithromycin are subject to a high degree of antibiotic resistance, which makes them less effective at treating certain types of infections.

One notable area of difference in the effectiveness of the two medications is in the treatment of acne vulgaris, a type of inflammatory skin disorder that occurs as a result of bacterial infection in the skin. Studies have shown that azithromycin is more effective at treating acne vulgaris than clindamycin, but it is also more likely to cause side effects on the skin.

YouTube player

Summary

Broad spectrum antibiotics like clindamycin and azithromycin can be used as antibacterials to treat a wide range of bacterial infections with varying degrees of effectiveness.

The two drugs cause similar side effects at similar rates and are available at an affordable cost in their generic form.

Patients who do not have access to commercial insurance can save money on the cost of their prescription by using a pharmacy discount card from Pharmacists.org.

References, Studies, and Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/clindamycin-oral-capsule 
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325326#uses 
https://www.healthline.com/health/strep-throat/z-pack 
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/264787038

We are committed to providing our readers with only trusted resources and science-based studies with regards to medication and health information. 

Disclaimer: This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. If you suspect medical problems or need medical help or advice, please talk with your healthcare professional.

Share This Post

Popular Destinations

Recent Articles

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

Major vision problems cause an annual economic impact of 145 billion dollars per year in the United States, and vision disability is one of the top 10 disabilities among adults over the age of 18. Everyone should have their eyes checked periodically, but how often should you get an eye exam?

Read More »

Iron Infusions: Everything You Need to Know

Iron-deficiency anemia is a common condition that can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and other health problems. If you are suffering from iron-deficiency anemia, your doctor may recommend an iron infusion as treatment. An iron infusion is a procedure in which iron is administered directly into your bloodstream. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about iron infusions including what they are, how they work, and how to prepare for them.

Read More »
what is genomic medicine

What Is Genomic Medicine?

Genomic medicine uses our genetic information to provide individualized health care. Various gene therapies can potentially cure rare diseases or conditions. Genetic testing allows people to know and understand the differences in their own genetic information. The results of genetic testing can help providers choose medications that are tailored specific genes and improve the health care of individual patients.

Read More »

Chigger Bite: Everything You Need to Know 

Do you know what chiggers are?

If not, you’re not alone. Many people have never heard of chiggers before, but they can be a real nuisance.

This article will teach you everything you need to know about chigger bites, what they are, where they live, what happens when they bite you, and how to treat them.

Read More »

Share On:

More To Explore

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

Major vision problems cause an annual economic impact of 145 billion dollars per year in the United States, and vision disability is one of

The different types of lie bumps: Transient lingual papillitis, fungiform papillae, and other forms

There are many different types of lie bumps and each one has its own specific symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options available to you. We’ll discuss

Iron Infusions: Everything You Need to Know

Iron-deficiency anemia is a common condition that can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and other health problems. If you are suffering from iron-deficiency anemia,

What Is Genomic Medicine?

Genomic medicine uses our genetic information to provide individualized health care. Various gene therapies can potentially cure rare diseases or conditions. Genetic testing allows

Chigger Bite: Everything You Need to Know 

Do you know what chiggers are? If not, you’re not alone. Many people have never heard of chiggers before, but they can be a real

What Are the Benefits of Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey is a unique type of honey that is produced in New Zealand and Australia as it is made by bees from the

How Often Can I Take Tylenol?

Tylenol, also known by the generic name acetaminophen, is a popular over-the- counter (OTC) drug that is classified as an analgesic (pain reliever) and

Coffee: Potential Benefits and Adverse Effects

In this article, we will explore coffee's history, its potential benefits, and if it is safe for everyone to consume.

Parosmia: What it is, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Parosmia is an olfactory disorder where you have a distorted perception of smell and you may smell odors differently than you should. It can

What Is Levofloxacin?

Improper prescription and use of antibiotics over the past several decades has led to a rise in drug-resistant bacteria, many of which do not

Brown Recluse Spider Bites: What You Need to Know

In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of being bitten by a brown recluse spider, when to seek medical attention, and how to

What Is the Drug Levofloxacin Used For?

One powerful fluoroquinolone antibiotic, levofloxacin, is used to treat and prevent a number of serious infections that cannot be treated with other medications. So,

Comparison of Azithromycin and Clarithromycin

Azithromycin and clarithromycin are both macrolide antibiotics used to treat a number of different bacterial infections, including upper respiratory tract infections, lower respiratory tract

MCHC: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is a measure of the average amount of hemoglobin in red blood cells with hemoglobin being responsible for transporting

What are the Symptoms of Coffee Withdrawal?

Due to the prevalence of coffee, tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks, caffeine is one of the most popular drugs in the world and

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Quercetin

This article will answer all your quercetin-related questions such as what quercetin is, how much quercetin you should take daily, what are the beneficial

How Much Does the Shingrix Vaccine Cost?

The Shingrix vaccine was approved for use in preventing shingles in 2017, and older Americans aged 50 and older are strongly advised to receive

All You Need to Know About Ringworm: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be seen on the skin. It can affect both children and adults, but it's most common in

CBD Oil: What You Need to Know

CBD oil is a popular natural remedy used for many common ailments. CBD is short for cannabidiol and it is one of over 100 chemical

The Top 7 Best CBD Lotions of 2023

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid that is found in cannabis and hemp plants. It has many supposed beneficial properties for the skin, making

CBD Topical Cream for Blemishes

If you are tired of dealing with sore, spotty skin and it is a problem that you still experience on a daily basis, now

CBD Hype: Is it Worth Buying?

The triumphant stories of many novel medications can be rooted in someone’s misfortune. Such was the story of 5-year old Charlotte Figi, who back

How to Break a Fever: Recommended Tips to Beat the Body Heat

If you are desperate to learn how to break a fever, you may be surprised to discover that there are many home remedies  you

The Responsible Way to Take Prescribed Antibiotics

When we go to the doctor and are prescribed medication, it is important to take it exactly as prescribed. However, when it comes to

The Truth About Jojoba Oil: From the The Holistic Pharmacy

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax, also called an oil interchangeably, that's extracted from jojoba seeds, and it has been used for centuries by

What Is Eliquis?

Many people don’t think about blood clots on a daily basis, but if you’ve ever had a blood clot, then you know just how

Everything You Need to Know About Wormwood

Wormwood is a plant that has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy. Its name comes from the Anglo-Saxon word wermode

First Oral Medication Approved for the Treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy

There are a few treatment options available for spinal muscular atrophy, but recently the U.S. Federal Drug and Administration (FDA) approved the first oral

Grapefruit Juice and Drug Interactions

Grapefruit juice, and other fruit juices, can interact with certain medications. Learn about the interaction of grapefruit juice with different drugs and how to

White Bumps on Your Tongue: What Are They and When You Need to Worry?

If you are worried about white bumps on your tongue, it's important to know that many people experience this issue at some point in