Clindamycin Hydrochloride

Generic Name: clindamycin hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Clindamycin Hydrochloride

Clindamycin hydrochloride is the hydrated hydrochloride salt of clindamycin. Clindamycin is a semisynthetic antibacterial drug produced by a 7(S)-chloro-substitution of the 7(R)-hydroxyl group of the parent compound lincomycin. Available as capsules containing clindamycin hydrochloride equivalent to 150 mg or 300 mg of clindamycin.

Overview

Clindamycin hydrochloride is the hydrated hydrochloride salt of clindamycin. Clindamycin is a semisynthetic antibacterial drug produced by a 7(S)-chloro-substitution of the 7(R)-hydroxyl group of the parent compound lincomycin. Available as capsules containing clindamycin hydrochloride equivalent to 150 mg or 300 mg of clindamycin.

Uses

Clindamycin is indicated in the treatment of serious infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria. Clindamycin is also indicated in the treatment of serious infections due to susceptible strains of streptococci, pneumococci, and staphylococci. Its use should be reserved for penicillin-allergic patients or other patients for whom a penicillin is inappropriate.

Dosage

Adults: Serious infections - 150 to 300 mg every 6 hours. More severe infections - 300 to 450 mg every 6 hours. Pediatric Patients: Serious infections - 8 to 16 mg/kg/day divided into three or four equal doses. More severe infections - 16 to 20 mg/kg/day divided into three or four equal doses. Administer with a full glass of water and at least 30 minutes before lying down.

Side Effects

Infections and Infestations: Clostridioides difficile colitis. Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, pseudomembranous colitis, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Hypersensitivity Reactions: Generalized mild to moderate morbilliform-like skin rashes, severe skin reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis, anaphylactic shock. Renal: Acute kidney injury. Hematopoietic: Transient neutropenia and eosinophilia.

Interactions

Clindamycin has neuromuscular blocking properties that may enhance the action of other neuromuscular blocking agents. Clindamycin is metabolized predominantly by CYP3A4, and inhibitors of CYP3A4 may increase plasma concentrations of clindamycin and inducers may reduce plasma concentrations.

Warnings

WARNING: Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including clindamycin HCl and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Because clindamycin HCl therapy has been associated with severe colitis which may end fatally, it should be reserved for serious infections where less toxic antimicrobial agents are inappropriate. Clindamycin hydrochloride is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to preparations containing clindamycin or lincomycin.

Pregnancy

The systemic administration of clindamycin during the second and third trimesters has not been associated with an increased frequency of congenital abnormalities. Clindamycin should be used during the first trimester of pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clindamycin Hydrochloride used for?

Clindamycin is indicated in the treatment of serious infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria. Clindamycin is also indicated in the treatment of serious infections due to susceptible strains of streptococci, pneumococci, and staphylococci. Its use should be reserved for penicillin-allergic patients or other patients for whom a penicillin is inappropriate.

What are the side effects of Clindamycin Hydrochloride?

Infections and Infestations: Clostridioides difficile colitis. Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, pseudomembranous colitis, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Hypersensitivity Reactions: Generalized mild to moderate morbilliform-like skin rashes, severe skin reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis, anaphylactic shock. Renal: Acute kidney injury. Hematopoietic: Transient neutropenia and eosinophilia.

Can I take Clindamycin Hydrochloride during pregnancy?

The systemic administration of clindamycin during the second and third trimesters has not been associated with an increased frequency of congenital abnormalities. Clindamycin should be used during the first trimester of pregnancy only if clearly needed.

What are the important warnings for Clindamycin Hydrochloride?

WARNING: Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including clindamycin HCl and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Because clindamycin HCl therapy has been associated with severe colitis which may end fatally, it should be reserved for serious infections where less toxic antimicrobial agents are inappropriate. Clindamycin hydrochloride is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to preparations containing clindamycin or lincomycin.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.