Clindamycin Oral: Dosing, Duration, and Precautions

Therapeutic action

Lincosamide antibacterial.

Indications

• Severe staphylococcal and/or streptococcal infections such as erysipelas, cellulitis, and pneumonia in betalactam-allergic patients.
• Infections due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
• Uncomplicated cutaneous anthrax.
• Completion treatment following therapy with parenteral clindamycin.

Forms and strengths

• 150 mg and 300 mg capsules.

Dose

• Child: 10 to 13 mg/kg, maximum 600 mg, 3 times daily.
• Adult: 600 mg 3 times daily.
• 1 to < 6 years and 10 to < 20 kg: 1 capsule of 150 mg 3 times daily.
• 6 to < 9 years and 20 to < 30 kg: 1 capsule of 300 mg 3 times daily.
• 9 to < 13 years and 30 to < 45 kg: 3 capsules of 150 mg 3 times daily.
• >= 13 years and adult, >= 45 kg: 2 capsules of 300 mg 3 times daily.

Duration

• Erysipelas and cellulitis: 7 to 10 days.
• Cutaneous anthrax: 7 to 14 days depending on severity.
• Pneumonia: 10 to 14 days.

Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions

• Do not administer to patients with allergy to lincosamides or a history of pseudomembranous colitis.
• Reduce dosage in patients with hepatic impairment.
• May cause pseudomembranous colitis, rash, jaundice, and severe allergic reactions. In these cases, stop treatment.
• In the event of pseudomembranous colitis, treat for Clostridium difficile infection with oral metronidazole.
• Pregnancy: no contra-indication.
• Breast-feeding: use only when there is no therapeutic alternative and check infant stools because of the risk of pseudomembranous colitis.

Dosage