Antimicrobials
Clindamycin

Clindamycin

High
Excellent
IV-$18/d PO-$2/d

General Information

  • For use in combination for treatment of Group A streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) or Staphylococcus aureus infections causing toxic shock syndrome or necrotizing fasciitis for reducing toxin production
  • Skin and soft tissue infections involving susceptible MRSA without alternative option such as TMP/SMX or doxycycline
  • Part of combination therapy for Pneumocystis, Toxoplasma
  • Alternative for pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Other indications as an alternative if true documented B lactam allergy

Monitor for:

  • Diarrhea - if severe diarrhea, consider C.diff infection
  • CBC
  • Hepatic Function
  • Renal function
  • Allergy (immediate & delayed)
  • GI upset, diarrhea, pseudomembranous colitis
  • Cytopenia
  • Abnormal liver enzymes

Concentration: 15 mg/mL

Taste: Less palatable, unpleasant taste

Not all strengths of oral liquids are listed nor are available on IWK formulary

  • 150 mg capsule
  • Tablets and capsules are preferred especially over an unpleasant tasting liquid
  • Not all strengths of oral tablets/capsules are listed and they are not all available on the IWK formulary

Some preparations of Clindamycin injection contain benzyl alcohol, which has caused gasping syndrome in neonates.

Antimicrobial class: Lincosamide

Average serum half life:

  • Premature neonates: 8.7 hours
  • Full term neonates: 3.6 hours
  • Infants 1 month to 1 year: 3 hours
  • Children and Adults: 2-3 hours

Route of Elimination:

  • Mostly hepatic metabolism
  • 10% of an oral dose excreted in urine and 3.6% excreted in feces as active drug and metabolites