Clindamycin Injection USP

Composition and Pharmacology

– Clindamycin Injection USP contains 150 mg/ml of Clindamycin Phosphate, 9.45 mg of Benzyl Alcohol, and Water for Injection.

– It acts primarily as a bacteriostatic antibiotic against Gram-positive aerobes and anaerobic bacteria by inhibiting protein synthesis via binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit.

– Resistance typically occurs through MLSB-type mechanisms, which can be either constitutive or inducible.

Indications and Contraindications

– Indicated for serious infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive organisms and anaerobic pathogens.

– Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to clindamycin or lincomycin.

Drug Interactions and Warnings

– Clindamycin may enhance the effects of neuromuscular blockers and should be used cautiously with vitamin K antagonists due to potential bleeding risks

– Severe hypersensitivity reactions and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) have been reported; monitoring for these conditions is essential.

Dosage and Administration

– For adults, serious infections require 600 mg to 1.2 g/day, while more severe cases may need up to 2.7 g/day.

– Pediatric dosing is based on body weight, with serious infections requiring 15-25 mg/kg/day.

Side Effects

– Common side effects include pseudomembranous colitis and rash; serious reactions like anaphylaxis and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported

– Liver function tests may show abnormalities during treatment.

Special Considerations

– Clindamycin should not be used for meningitis due to poor CNS penetration

– Caution is advised in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease, especially colitis

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