Can Clindamycin Make You Tired? Understanding Fatigue and Other Side Effects

October 15, 2025 •

4 min read

While up to 98% of patients taking clindamycin report some gastrointestinal side effects, fatigue is considered a less common but possible reaction [1.7.1]. So, can clindamycin make you tired? The answer is complex and often related to other factors.

Quick Summary

Clindamycin, a lincosamide antibiotic, can cause unusual tiredness or weakness, though it's a rare side effect. This fatigue may also be a symptom of the underlying infection or other serious issues like liver or kidney problems.

Key Points

Fatigue is a Rare Side Effect: While possible, unusual tiredness or weakness is considered a rare side effect of clindamycin [1.3.2].
Infection is a Primary Cause of Tiredness: The body's response to the bacterial infection itself is a common reason for feeling tired while taking antibiotics [1.3.1, 1.4.3].
Indirect Causes are Common: Dehydration from gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea is a frequent indirect cause of fatigue [1.3.1, 1.6.3].
Fatigue Can Signal Serious Issues: In rare instances, fatigue can be a symptom of severe side effects like liver or kidney damage [1.3.4, 1.3.5].
Gastrointestinal Distress is a Major Factor: Clindamycin is strongly associated with GI side effects, including severe diarrhea and C. diff colitis, which can contribute to weakness [1.7.1, 1.9.1].
Management is Key: Staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and eating a balanced diet can help manage fatigue during treatment [1.6.2, 1.6.3].
Consult a Doctor: If fatigue is severe, worsening, or accompanied by other worrying symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical advice [1.3.3, 1.6.1].

What is Clindamycin?

Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic used to treat a wide range of serious bacterial infections [1.9.1, 1.8.5]. It is effective against infections of the skin, lungs, blood, internal organs, and female reproductive organs [1.9.1]. It works by stopping or slowing the growth of bacteria [1.9.1]. It's important to note that clindamycin does not work for viral infections like the common cold or flu [1.9.1]. Due to its potential for significant side effects, it is often reserved for serious infections where other antibiotics may not be suitable [1.9.1].

How Clindamycin Works

Clindamycin functions by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, which disrupts the synthesis of proteins essential for bacterial growth and replication [1.8.3, 1.7.1]. This action is primarily bacteriostatic, meaning it inhibits bacterial growth, but it can be bactericidal (kill bacteria) against certain susceptible strains [1.7.4]. Its ability to penetrate bone and soft tissues makes it effective for conditions like osteomyelitis and diabetic foot infections [1.8.4, 1.9.5].

Can Clindamycin Make You Tired?

While not one of the most common side effects, unusual tiredness or weakness is a recognized potential side effect of clindamycin [1.3.2, 1.9.3]. However, sources suggest that clindamycin doesn't typically cause drowsiness on its own [1.3.1]. The fatigue experienced while taking this antibiotic is often multifactorial.

Indirect Causes of Fatigue

The Infection Itself: The primary reason for taking an antibiotic is an underlying infection. The body's immune response to fight off this infection naturally requires significant energy, leading to feelings of tiredness and fatigue [1.3.1, 1.4.3]. Getting extra rest helps the body recover [1.3.1].
Dehydration: Common side effects of clindamycin include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting [1.7.2]. These gastrointestinal issues can lead to dehydration, which is a known cause of fatigue [1.6.3, 1.3.1].
Gut Microbiome Disruption: Antibiotics, including clindamycin, alter the normal flora of the colon [1.7.5]. This disruption can affect overall health and potentially contribute to fatigue. Clindamycin can cause long-term shifts in gut microbiome composition even after a short course of treatment [1.5.1].
Underlying Serious Side Effects: In rare cases, fatigue can be a symptom of a more serious side effect associated with clindamycin, such as liver or kidney problems [1.3.4, 1.3.5, 1.2.3]. Symptoms of liver problems include jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) and nausea, while kidney issues may present with decreased urination and swelling in the legs [1.3.4, 1.3.5]. If you experience fatigue along with these symptoms, it is crucial to contact a healthcare provider immediately [1.3.4, 1.3.5].

Common and Serious Side Effects

Clindamycin carries a risk of various side effects, ranging from mild to life-threatening. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a black box warning for clindamycin due to its risk of causing severe and potentially fatal colitis (inflammation of the colon) associated with Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) overgrowth [1.7.1, 1.7.5].

Common Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting [1.7.2]
Diarrhea [1.7.2]
Stomach pain [1.7.2]
Metallic or unpleasant taste in the mouth [1.8.2]
Joint pain [1.8.2]
Vaginal itching or discharge [1.7.3]
Mild skin rash [1.7.5]

Serious Side Effects

Severe Diarrhea and C. diff Colitis: Watery or bloody stools, which can occur during or even months after treatment [1.9.1].
Serious Skin Reactions: Reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) can occur, presenting with blistering, peeling skin, fever, and a red or purple rash [1.7.2, 1.2.4].
Liver Problems: Symptoms include jaundice, dark urine, and fatigue [1.3.4, 1.7.5].
Kidney Damage: Signs can include a reduced need to urinate, swelling in the feet or legs, and unusual tiredness [1.7.2, 1.3.5].
Allergic Reactions: Symptoms include hives, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing [1.8.2].

Comparison of Clindamycin to Alternatives

When clindamycin is not suitable, healthcare providers may consider other antibiotics. The choice depends on the specific infection, local resistance patterns, and patient allergies [1.10.2].


Feature	Clindamycin (Cleocin)	Doxycycline	Amoxicillin
Antibiotic Class	Lincosamide [1.8.5]	Tetracycline [1.10.1]	Penicillin [1.10.1]
Common Uses	Serious skin, lung, blood, and pelvic infections [1.9.1]	Acne, UTIs, respiratory infections [1.10.1]	Ear, nose, throat, and skin infections [1.10.1]
Common Side Effects	Diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, rash [1.7.2]	Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sun sensitivity [1.10.1]	Diarrhea, rash, nausea, vomiting [1.10.1]
Dosing Frequency	Typically 3-4 times a day [1.9.4]	Usually 1-2 times a day [1.10.1]	Usually 2-3 times a day [1.10.1]

How to Manage Fatigue While Taking Clindamycin

If you experience tiredness while on clindamycin, several strategies can help manage this feeling:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you have diarrhea or are vomiting, to prevent dehydration-related fatigue [1.6.2, 1.6.3].
Get Adequate Rest: Allow your body to recover by getting enough sleep. Aim for 7-8 hours per night [1.6.2]. It's normal to need more rest while your body is fighting an infection [1.3.1].
Eat a Balanced Diet: Consuming nutrient-rich foods can help support your energy levels [1.6.3].
Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can disrupt sleep and contribute to dehydration, potentially worsening fatigue [1.6.3].
Consult Your Doctor: If your fatigue is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it's essential to talk to your healthcare provider. They can determine the cause and rule out more serious complications [1.6.1, 1.3.3].

Conclusion

While clindamycin can make you feel tired, this fatigue is officially considered a rare side effect [1.3.2]. More often, the tiredness is a result of the infection the drug is treating, or other common side effects like diarrhea and dehydration [1.3.1]. However, because fatigue can also signal serious underlying issues like liver or kidney problems, it should not be ignored [1.3.4, 1.3.5]. Always discuss unusual or severe tiredness with your healthcare provider to ensure your treatment is safe and effective.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.

Visit the Mayo Clinic for more information on Clindamycin

Frequently Asked Questions

No, clindamycin does not typically cause drowsiness on its own. The fatigue you might feel is more likely related to your body fighting the infection or other side effects like dehydration [1.3.1, 1.6.1].

Unusual tiredness or weakness is listed as a rare side effect of clindamycin [1.3.2]. One study noted fatigue was less frequently reported than gastrointestinal issues, affecting 5% of patients on a lower dose and 15% on a higher dose [1.5.4, 1.7.1].

Feeling weak on antibiotics is often a symptom of the infection your body is fighting [1.4.3]. It can also be a side effect of the medication itself or related issues like dehydration caused by diarrhea [1.6.3].

It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking antibiotics. Alcohol can interfere with sleep, cause dehydration, and potentially worsen side effects, which can make you feel more tired [1.6.3].

If your tiredness is severe or accompanied by other symptoms like yellowing skin, dark urine, or swelling, contact your doctor immediately as this could indicate a serious problem with your liver or kidneys [1.3.4, 1.3.5]. Otherwise, focus on rest and hydration [1.6.2].

Yes, fatigue can be a symptom of a C. difficile infection, along with watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever [1.3.1]. C. diff is a serious risk associated with clindamycin use [1.7.1].

The most common side effects of clindamycin are gastrointestinal, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain [1.7.2]. A metallic taste is also commonly reported [1.8.2].