| name | Clindamycin |
| Classification | Lincosamides; Antibacterial |
| Pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; absorption is slightly reduced when given with food. | | distribution | Distributes widely throughout tissues and fluids; penetrates into some tissues and bones. | | metabolism | Metabolized primarily in the liver. | | excretion | Excreted primarily in the urine as inactive metabolites. |
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| suggested dosage | | adult oral | Typically 150-450 mg every 6 hours, or 600mg twice daily. Dosage may vary based on the severity and type of infection. | | other routes | Available in intravenous and topical formulations. IV dosing will be based on individual patient needs, always by a medical professional. |
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| indications | | 1 | Bacterial infections of skin and soft tissues | | 2 | Respiratory tract infections | | 3 | Intra-abdominal infections | | 4 | Endocarditis | | 5 | Pelvic inflammatory disease | | 6 | Bone and joint infections | | 7 | Other bacterial infections in cases where penicillin or other drugs are not appropriate. |
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| safety in pregnancy | | category | Category B | | details | There is no evidence of risk to the fetus when used during pregnancy. However, use only when clearly needed. Consult your physician. |
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| safety in breastfeeding | | details | Clindamycin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. This should be considered when breastfeeding, and if needed, benefits and risks should be weighed with your physician. |
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| side effects | | 1 | Diarrhea (especially with oral formulations) | | 2 | Nausea | | 3 | Vomiting | | 4 | Abdominal pain | | 5 | Superinfections (e.g., vaginal candidiasis) | | 6 | Headache | | 7 | Dizziness | | 8 | Rash | | 9 | Skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis). Very rare but serious. |
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| alternative drugs | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to clindamycin or other lincosamides | | 2 | Severe hepatic impairment | | 3 | History of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (C. diff). |
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| interactions | | 1 | Antacids (decrease absorption) | | 2 | Drugs that alter liver enzymes (may increase risk of side effects) | | 3 | Other medications. Consult your physician. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor for signs of C. difficile infection, especially with prolonged use or with history of bowel issues. | | 2 | Monitor renal function if kidney impairment is present. | | 3 | Use caution in patients with a history of severe diarrhea. | | 4 | Be aware of possible interactions with other medications. Consult your physician |
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| additional information | | 1 | Clindamycin is not effective against viral infections. | | 2 | Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal or hepatic impairment. | | 3 | Avoid concurrent use of antacids, as antacids reduce absorption. | | 4 | This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. |
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| patient profile | |
