Compare Clindesse vs. Biaxin

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

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Clindesse (clindamycin)

Prescription only

Biaxin (clarithromycin)

Prescription only
Treats bacterial vaginal infections with a single dose.

Clindesse (clindamycin) treats vaginal infections and is very easy to use.

Treats bacterial infections.

Biaxin (clarithromycin) is a good first-choice medicine to treat most common respiratory infections. Side-effects are common, but mild.

Upsides
  • Very easy to use and works within a few days.
  • Generic available, so cost is lower.
  • Doesn't have many side effects.
  • You can stand up and walk around right after you use it, so you can use it at any time of day.
  • Good first-choice treatment for respiratory infections.
  • Compared to similar medicines, Biaxin (clarithromycin) is better tolerated.
  • Available as an extended-release pill for convenient once daily dosing and as a liquid for trouble swallowing pills.
  • Children as young as 6 months can use Biaxin (clarithromycin) safely and effectively.
Downsides
  • Can cause yeast infections in some women.
  • After using Clindesse (clindamycin), must avoid sex and using tampons for 7 days.
  • Can very rarely cause severe diarrhea.
  • Cannot be used if you have bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
  • Can cause changes in taste.
  • Can cause abnormal heart rhythms.
  • Biaxin (clarithromycin), can interact with other medications. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you are taking medicines for heart problems or gout.
  • If you have kidney or liver problems, Biaxin (clarithromycin) might not be a good option.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Cream
  • Pill
  • Extended release pill
  • Liquid
Price
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Reviews
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Side effects
5possible side effects
  • Yeast infection
    14%
  • Headache
    7%
  • Back pain
    5%
  • Constipation
    2%
  • Bladder infection
    2%
See more detailed side effects
7possible side effects
  • Nausea
    12%
  • Vomiting
    8%
  • Abnormal changes in taste
    4%
  • Abdominal pain
    3%
  • Diarrhea
    3%
  • Rash
    3%
  • Headache
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Allergy alert
    • Known allergy to clindamycin
    • Known allergy to lincosamides
  • Severe diarrhea
    • History of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
    • Crohn's disease
    • Ulcerative colitis
    • Regional enteritis
  • Weakened condoms and vaginal diaphragms
  • Safety in girls who haven't started puberty
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Serious allergic reaction
  • Abnormal heart rhythm
    • History of heart arrhythmias
    • Drugs that cause prolonged QT interval
    • Abnormal electrolytes
    • Elderly
  • Liver toxicity
  • Serious drug interactions
  • Severe diarrhea caused by bacteria
    • Antibiotic use
  • Birth defects
    • Pregnancy
See more detailed risks and warnings