What Is Clindesse? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

If you've been prescribed Clindesse, you might be wondering exactly what it is, how it works, and whether it's the right treatment for you. This guide covers everything patients need to know about Clindesse in 2026 — from its FDA approval and active ingredient to how to use it correctly.

What Is Clindesse?

Clindesse is the brand name for clindamycin phosphate 2% vaginal cream, manufactured by Padagis. It is a prescription antibiotic cream that is inserted directly into the vagina as a single dose to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Clindesse belongs to the lincosamide class of antibiotics. Unlike many BV treatments that require daily application for 5–7 days, Clindesse is a one-time treatment — the entire course is delivered in a single pre-filled applicator. This single-dose convenience is what sets Clindesse apart from other clindamycin vaginal creams (like Cleocin) and makes it a popular choice for patients who want a simpler regimen.

What Is Clindesse Used For?

Clindesse is FDA-approved for one specific indication:

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) in non-pregnant women. This includes what was previously called Haemophilus vaginitis, Gardnerella vaginitis, nonspecific vaginitis, and anaerobic vaginosis.

It is not approved for pregnancy (insufficient safety data for this formulation), and it does not treat yeast infections (candidiasis) or sexually transmitted infections such as trichomoniasis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea.

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age. It occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted — specifically, when anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that grow without oxygen) overgrow at the expense of beneficial Lactobacillus species.

Common BV symptoms include:

Thin, gray or white vaginal discharge

Fishy or unpleasant vaginal odor (often more noticeable after sex)

Vaginal itching or irritation

More than 50% of BV cases are asymptomatic (no noticeable symptoms)

Clindesse Dosage and How to Use It

The recommended dosage is the complete contents of a single pre-filled applicator (5 grams of cream containing approximately 100 mg of clindamycin), administered intravaginally as a single dose. Clindesse can be used at any time of day — unlike some vaginal treatments that must be used at bedtime.

How to use Clindesse:

Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.

Peel back the protective foil from the single-use pre-filled applicator. Do not remove the tip.

Activate the plunger by pulling the ring back to fully extend it while holding the applicator.

While lying on your back with knees bent or standing with feet apart, gently insert the applicator into the vagina as far as it will comfortably go.

Push the plunger in firmly until all the cream is inside the vagina.

Remove and discard the applicator. Do not reuse.

Key Facts About Clindesse

Controlled substance: No — Clindesse is not scheduled and has no special dispensing restrictions.

Generic available: No FDA-approved generic exists as of 2026.

Manufacturer: Padagis (Yeruham, Israel)

FDA-approved since: 1972 (original U.S. approval for clindamycin)

Cash price: ~$187–$203 retail; as low as $109 with GoodRx; as little as $25 with Padagis savings program (insured)

Drug class: Lincosamide antibiotic (vaginal anti-infective)

Finding Clindesse and Understanding Your Options

Clindesse can be harder to find than common generics because no FDA-approved generic exists. If your pharmacy is out of stock, medfinder can call pharmacies near you to locate which ones can fill your prescription today.

For more detailed information on what to expect from treatment, see: Clindesse Side Effects: What to Expect and When to Call Your Doctor.