Compare Cipro vs. Cleocin

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

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Cipro (ciprofloxacin)

Prescription only

Cleocin (clindamycin)

Prescription only
Treats bacterial infections.

Cipro (ciprofloxacin) is a good, cheap antibiotic that treats many types of bacterial infections, but it interacts with some food and drugs.

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3.8/ 5 average rating with 755 reviewsforCipro
Treats acne.

Cleocin (clindamycin) is proven to be effective at treating acne when combined with another acne medicine and is available in a variety of formulations.

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3.5/ 5 average rating with 115 reviewsforCleocin
Upsides
  • Cipro (ciprofloxacin) is available in generic.
  • Cipro (ciprofloxacin) comes in different forms, including intravenous (IV) injection.
  • Available in generic.
  • Comes in different formulations (gel, solution, lotion, foam) to fit your preferences.
  • Works well for the kind of acne that causes large, red, and swollen pimples.
Downsides
  • Cipro (ciprofloxacin) should be used with caution if you have kidney problems.
  • If you drink caffeine while on Cipro (ciprofloxacin), you may notice increased effects of the caffeine.
  • Some bacteria have developed resistance to Cipro (ciprofloxacin).
  • Cipro (ciprofloxacin) can interact with many other medications. Tell your doctor and pharmacist what medications, over-the-counter products, and supplements you are taking before starting Cipro (ciprofloxacin).
  • Foam formulation can cause headaches.
  • You will likely have to use another acne medicine along with Cleocin (clindamycin) since it is not as effective by itself.
  • Is only preferred for mild to moderate acne. If you have severe acne your doctor will most likely prescribe an oral medication.
  • If you only have comedonal acne (small skin-colored bumps on the skin) without any red, swollen pimples, your doctor may give you an alternative medicine.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Liquid
  • Injection
  • Extended release pill
  • Gel
  • Foam
  • Solution
  • Lotion
Price
Lowest price
$17.13
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Lowest price
$157.34
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Reviews
755 reviews so far
63%
saidit'sworth it
53%
saiditworked well
17%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Cipro (ciprofloxacin)?

Leave a review
115 reviews so far
57%
saidit'sworth it
43%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Cleocin (clindamycin)?

Leave a review
Side effects
2possible side effects
  • Nausea
    3%
  • Diarrhea
    2%
See more detailed side effects
9possible side effects
  • Dryness
    23%
  • Oiliness/Oily skin
    18%
  • Redness
    16%
  • Burning
    11%
  • Burning/Itching
    11%
  • Peeling
    11%
  • Itching
    11%
  • Burning where applied
    6%
  • Headache
    3%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Tendon rupture
    • People over age 60
    • Taking steroid medicine
    • Those with kidney, heart, or lung transplants
  • Myasthenia gravis
    • Myasthenia gravis
  • Diarrhea
  • Nerve damage
  • Central nervous system effects
    • Central nervous system disorders
    • Seizures
  • Heart rhythm problems
    • Use with other QT prolonging drugs
    • History of heart disease
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Skin irritation
    • Using other medicines or products that irritate the skin
    • Eczema
    • Extreme temperatures (hot or cold)
  • Severe diarrhea and stomach cramps
    • Using Cleocin (clindamycin) for a long time
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Cipro (ciprofloxacin)
Learn more about Cleocin (clindamycin)