Metronidazole Vs. Clindamycin for managing bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a frequently occurring yet not fully comprehended vaginal infection caused by multiple microorganisms. It commonly occurs in women in the reproductive age group and is highly prevalent in African women, especially those in sub-Saharan Africa. Nearly 50-69% of women with BV are asymptomatic, and symptoms vary from Gray-white offensive vaginal discharge amplified following sexual intercourse and during menstruation to lower abdominal pain and dyspareunia. Amsel’s and Nugent’s criteria are used to diagnose BV. CDC & ACOG recommends using Metronidazole or Clindamycin to treat BV orally or Intravaginally.

The present study investigated the effectiveness of Clindamycin on Bacterial Vaginosis and compared it with commonly used Metronidazole.

The study found Clindamycin superior to Metronidazole concerning Amsel’s criteria and Nugent’s after treatment. Hence, Oral Clindamycin may be preferred over Oral Metronidazole because of its broader spectrum of activity.

Kondapalli S, Efficacy of tablet metronidazole and Clindamycin in management of bacterial vaginosis in a tertiary care hospital in Chengalpattu district. Indian J Obstet Gynecol Res 2023;10(2):147-150