Clindamycin
Clindamycin is an antibiotic. Chemically it is identified as 7-deoxy, 7-chloro derivative of of Lincomycin, an antobiotic that is elaborated by Streptomyces lincolnensis. It is effective against gram positive organism and many anaerobic bacteria. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the medication at regular interval of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. It is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the therapy, it may result in ineffective treatment. Clindamycin phosphate is used for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.
Primary Characteristics
Clindamycin is also known as Clindamycin (HCl), Clindamycin Phosphate.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Deoxylincomycin.
It belongs to Antibacterial (Proetin synthesis inhibitor) pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotics pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 479.5 · pKa: 7.7 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 2 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 200 · Non-proprietary name: Clindamycin · pH: 6.8 · Isotonic value: 10.73.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Clindamycin has an oral bioavailability is 75% (±5%).
Distribution: Clindamycin has a volume of distribution is 43-74 l/sq.meter. plasma protein binding is 94%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 1.5-3.5 hr, renal excretion is 6-10%.
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Indications
Clindamycin is primarily indicated in conditions like Acne vulgaris, Babesiosis, Bacterial infections, Bacterial vaginosis, Dental infections, Endocarditis, Hidradenitis suppurativa, Intra-abdominal infections, Malaria, Osteomyelitis, Pelvic infections, Peritonitis, Pulmonary infection, Septic arthritis, Septicaemia, Soft tissue infections, Staphylococcal bone and joint infections, Systemic sepsis, Toxoplasmosis.
Contraindications
Clindamycin is contraindicated in conditions like Pseudomembranous colitis, Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Clindamycin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 450 mg | 450 mg | Every 6h | IM, IV | Should not Exceed 1-8g/day as a single 1 hour infusion and should not exceet 4.8g daily |
| 300 mg | 300 mg | Every 6h | PO | Should not Exceed 1.8g/day, in severe infection dose is increased to 450mg |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 12 mg/kg | 12 mg/kg | Every 6h | serious infection | |
| 18 mg/kg | 18 mg/kg | Every 6h | more serious infection | |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Clindamycin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Elevated alkaline phosphatase concentration, Elevated SGPT & SGOT, Severe diarrhea, Esophageal ulceration.
Clindamycin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Ventricular fibrillation, Anaphylactic shock, Pseudomembranous colitis , Cardiac Arrest , Mucosal edema, Colonic ulceration. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Clindamycin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Cervicitis, Contact dermatitis, Leukocytoclastic angiitis, Local irritation, Nausea, Rashes , Reaction at injection site, Vaginitis, Vomiting , Xerosis.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Clindamycin may interfere in the diagnosis of Liver Function Test (LFT) .
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.2.9 — Clindamycin and similar types
- 2.13.2.1 — Antibacterials, topical
- 3.13.5.1 — Antiacne preparations
- 4.22.2 — Gynecological anti-infectives