What is a serious adverse effect of clindamycin?

The serious adverse effect associated with clindamycin is antibiotic-associated colitis, which is primarily caused by the overgrowth of Clostridium difficile. Clindamycin, like other antibiotics, can disrupt the normal intestinal flora, leading to an imbalance that allows this pathogenic bacteria to proliferate. The resulting inflammation of the colon can lead to severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potentially life-threatening complications.

Recognizing this risk is crucial, as antibiotic-associated colitis requires prompt medical intervention, often involving discontinuation of the offending antibiotic and possible treatment with specific antibiotics like vancomycin or fidaxomicin. This highlights the importance of careful monitoring of patients on clindamycin, particularly if they present with gastrointestinal symptoms following antibiotic therapy.