IBS or side effects from Clindamycin?

I have been diagnosed with IBS and Gastritis. I just finished Clindamycin a few days ago that I was taking for an oral infection. Today, I have really bad stomach cramping and diarrhea, but have no way of knowing if this is just my regualr IBS (b/c those are symptoms of IBS) or if this could be the intestinal condition pseudomembranous colitis from the Clindamycin.
I did stop taking my zantac for the 2 weeks I was on the Clindamycin and have not been using my benefiber either.

How long do I wait before I go to the Doctor? Or do I even need to go to the Doctor?
Thank you for your help!

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi Shells888,
It is difficult to differentiate between the two with the symptoms alone that you have mentioned.
The chances of clsotridium difficile infection are more and the diagnosis can be confirmed by stool tests.
A course of metronidazole will give relief from symptoms if it is due to clostridium diffcile infection.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.