Clindamycin Hydrochloride
Name: Clindamycin Hydrochloride
- Clindamycin Hydrochloride drug
- Clindamycin Hydrochloride clindamycin hydrochloride dosage
- Clindamycin Hydrochloride 600 mg
- Clindamycin Hydrochloride dosage
- Clindamycin Hydrochloride injection
- Clindamycin Hydrochloride oral dose
- Clindamycin Hydrochloride used to treat
Uses for Clindamycin Hydrochloride
Acute Otitis Media (AOM)
Alternative for treatment of AOM† known or presumed to be caused by penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae.253
Not a first-line agent, but AAP and AAFP state clindamycin may be considered in individuals with penicillin hypersensitivity who may have AOM caused by penicillin-resistant S. pneumoniae.253
Use of clindamycin also may be considered if AOM persists after treatment with amoxicillin and clavulanate or ceftriaxone and tympanocentesis is not available to make a bacteriologic diagnosis.253
Bone and Joint Infections
Treatment of serious bone and joint infections (including acute hematogenous osteomyelitis) caused by susceptible Staphylococcus aureus.139
Adjunct in the surgical treatment of chronic bone and joint infections caused by susceptible bacteria.139
Gynecologic Infections
Treatment of serious gynecologic infections (e.g., endometritis, nongonococcal tubo-ovarian abscess, pelvic cellulitis, postsurgical vaginal cuff infection) caused by susceptible anaerobes.121 126 139
Treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID); used in conjunction with other anti-infectives.124 128 257 When a parenteral regimen is indicated for treatment of PID, IV clindamycin in conjunction with an IV or IM aminoglycoside (e.g., gentamicin) is one of the recommended regimens.124 128 257
Intra-abdominal Infections
Treatment of serious intra-abdominal infections (e.g., peritonitis, intra-abdominal abscess) caused by susceptible anaerobes.121 126 139
Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis
Alternative for treatment of pharyngitis and tonsillitis† caused by susceptible Streptococcus pyogenes (group A β-hemolytic streptococci)120 122 135 144 149 in patients who cannot receive β-lactam anti-infectives and have infections caused by macrolide-resistant S. pyogenes.122
CDC, AAP, IDSA, AHA, and others recommend oral penicillin V or IM penicillin G benzathine as treatments of choice for pharyngitis and tonsillitis;120 122 123 127 144 oral cephalosporins and oral macrolides are considered alternatives.120 122 123 127 144 Amoxicillin sometimes used instead of penicillin V, especially for young children.122 144
Alternative for treatment of symptomatic patients who have multiple, recurrent episodes of pharyngitis known to be caused by S. pyogenes.122 144
Consider that multiple, recurrent episodes of symptomatic pharyngitis within several months to years may indicate that the patient is a streptococcal carrier experiencing repeated episodes of nonstreptococcal pharyngitis (e.g., viral) pharyngitis; treatment not usually recommended for streptococcal pharyngeal carriers.122 144
Respiratory Tract Infections
Treatment of serious respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, empyema, lung abscess) caused by susceptible anaerobes, S. pneumoniae, other streptococci, or S. aureus.121 126 139 151
A drug of choice for treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (including aspiration pneumonia) when anaerobes are identified or suspected.151
Septicemia
Treatment of serious septicemia caused by susceptible anaerobes, streptococci, or S. aureus.121 126 139
Skin and Skin Structure Infections
Treatment of serious skin and skin structure infections caused by susceptible anaerobes, S. pyogenes, other streptococci, or staphylococci.120 121 126 139
Actinomycosis
Treatment of actinomycosis† caused by Actinomyces israelii;120 144 follow-up treatment (6–12 months) after initial parenteral treatment (4–6 weeks) with penicillin G or ampicillin.144
Anthrax
Alternative for treatment of anthrax†.103 116 117
Component of multiple-drug parenteral regimens recommended for treatment of inhalational anthrax that occurs as the result of exposure to B. anthracis spores in the context of biologic warfare or bioterrorism.103 117 119 Initiate treatment with IV ciprofloxacin or doxycycline and 1 or 2 other anti-infective agents predicted to be effective (e.g., chloramphenicol, clindamycin, rifampin, vancomycin, clarithromycin, imipenem, penicillin, ampicillin);103 117 if meningitis is established or suspected, use IV ciprofloxacin (rather than doxycycline) and chloramphenicol, rifampin, or penicillin.117
Babesiosis
Treatment of babesiosis† caused by Babesia microti.101 104 105 144
Regimens of choice for babesiosis are clindamycin in conjunction with quinine or atovaquone in conjunction with azithromycin;104 111 144 256 the clindamycin and quinine regimen may be preferred for severe babesiosis.256 Also consider exchange transfusions in severely ill patients with high levels of parasitemia (>10%), significant hemolysis, or compromised renal, hepatic, or pulmonary function.104 144 256
Bacillus cereus Infections
Treatment of invasive disease caused by Bacillus cereus†.120 144 Anti-infectives not usually indicated for gastroenteritis caused by B. cereus.144
Bacterial Vaginosis
Treatment of bacterial vaginosis† (formerly called Haemophilus vaginitis, Gardnerella vaginitis, nonspecific vaginitis, Corynebacterium vaginitis, or anaerobic vaginosis) in pregnant or nonpregnant women.124 128 180 181 182 183 194 196 203
CDC recommends treatment of bacterial vaginosis in all symptomatic women (including pregnant women).128 In addition, asymptomatic pregnant women at high risk for complications of pregnancy should be screened (preferably at the first prenatal visit) and treatment initiated if needed.128
Treatment recommendations for bacterial vaginosis in HIV-infected women are the same as those for women without HIV infection.128
Regimens of choice in nonpregnant women are a 7-day regimen of oral metronidazole; a 5-day regimen of intravaginal metronidazole gel; or a 7-day regimen of intravaginal clindamycin cream;124 128 alternative regimens are a 7-day regimen of oral clindamycin or 3-day regimen of intravaginal clindamycin suppositories.124 128 The preferred regimens for pregnant women are a 7-day regimen of oral metronidazole or a 7-day regimen of oral clindamycin.128
Regardless of regimen used, relapse or recurrence is common;128 189 192 193 194 195 197 an alternative regimen (e.g., oral therapy when topical was used initially) may be used in such situations.128 183
Routine treatment of asymptomatic male sexual contacts of women who have relapsing or recurrent bacterial vaginosis not recommended.128
Capnocytophaga Infections
Alternative to penicillin G for treatment of infections caused by Capnocytophaga canimorsus†.120
Clostridium Infections
Alternative to penicillin G for treatment of clostridial myonecrosis (gas gangrene) caused by Clostridium perfringens or other Clostridium.120 144 Anti-infectives not usually indicated for gastroenteritis caused by C. perfringens.144
Malaria
Treatment of uncomplicated malaria† caused by chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum or when the plasmodial species has not been identified.104 113 114 115 252 Used in conjunction with oral quinine; not effective alone.114 252
CDC and others state treatments of choice for uncomplicated chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum malaria are a regimen of oral quinine in conjunction with doxycycline, tetracycline, or clindamycin or a regimen of atovaquone and proguanil.114 252 A regimen of quinine and doxycycline (or tetracycline) generally preferred over quinine and clindamycin,252 except for young children or pregnant women who should not receive tetracyclines.104 113 115 252
Treatment of severe malaria caused by P. falciparum†; used in conjunction with IV quinidine gluconate initially and then with oral quinine when an oral regimen is tolerated.252
Pneumocystis jiroveci (Pneumocystis carinii) Pneumonia
Treatment of Pneumocystis jiroveci (formerly Pneumocystis carinii) pneumonia† (PCP); used in conjunction with primaquine.104 145 146 148 150 152 153 155 157 158 159 169 170 204 205 206 254 Designated an orphan drug by FDA for use in this condition.212
Co-trimoxazole is initial drug of choice for treatment in most adults, adolescents, and children, including HIV-infected patients; a regimen of clindamycin and primaquine is an alternative for adults and adolescents with mild to moderately severe PCP who have had an inadequate response to co-trimoxazole or when co-trimoxazole is contraindicated or not tolerated.104 145 146 148 150 152 153 155 157 158 159 169 170 204 254
Clindamycin in conjunction with primaquine has been used as an alternative for long-term suppressive or chronic maintenance therapy (secondary prophylaxis) of PCP†,150 159 but USPHS/IDSA states the regimen should only be considered for primary or secondary prophylaxis of PCP in unusual situations when the usually recommended agents (co-trimoxazole, dapsone, dapsone with pyrimethamine and leucovorin, aerosolized pentamidine, atovaquone) cannot be used.210
Toxoplasmosis
Alternative for treatment of toxoplasmosis† in immunocompromised adults, adolescents, or children (including HIV-infected patients) who relapse or fail to respond to or are unable to tolerate the regimen of choice (pyrimethamine in conjunction with sulfadiazine and leucovorin).129 130 131 132 138 164 166 167 168 172 204 205 254 255 Clindamycin is used in conjunction with pyrimethamine and leucovorin and is the preferred alternative.163 164 166 172 204 205 254 255
Alternative for long-term suppressive or chronic maintenance therapy (secondary prophylaxis) to prevent relapse of toxoplasmosis† in HIV-infected individuals who cannot receive the regimen of choice (sulfadiazine in conjunction with pyrimethamine and leucovorin).210 254 Clindamycin is used in conjunction with pyrimethamine and leucovorin.210 254 Consider that the clindamycin regimen may be less effective than the sulfadiazine regimen in preventing toxoplasmosis recurrence210 213 and that only the sulfadiazine regimen appears to provide protection against both toxoplasmosis and P. jiroveci.210
Prevention of Bacterial Endocarditis
Alternative for prevention of α-hemolytic (viridans group) streptococcal bacterial endocarditis† in penicillin-allergic patients with certain cardiac conditions who are undergoing certain dental procedures (i.e., procedures that involve manipulation of gingival tissue, the periapical region of teeth, or perforation of oral mucosa) or certain invasive respiratory tract procedures (i.e., procedures involving incision or biopsy of respiratory mucosa).141
Consult most recent AHA recommendations for information on which cardiac conditions are associated with the highest risk of adverse outcome from endocarditis and specific recommendations regarding use of prophylaxis to prevent endocarditis in these patients.141
Prevention of Perinatal Group B Streptococcal Disease
Alternative to penicillin G or ampicillin for prevention of perinatal group B streptococcal (GBS) disease† in penicillin-allergic pregnant women at risk for anaphylaxis with a β-lactam anti-infective.214 245
Intrapartum anti-infective prophylaxis to prevent early-onset neonatal GBS disease is administered to women identified as GBS carriers during routine prenatal GBS screening performed at 35–37 weeks during the current pregnancy and to women who have GBS bacteriuria during the current pregnancy, a previous infant with invasive GBS disease, unknown GBS status with delivery at <37 weeks gestation, amniotic membrane rupture for ≥18 hours, or intrapartum temperature of ≥38°C.214 245
Penicillin G is the regimen of choice and ampicillin is the preferred alternative.214 245 Cefazolin can be used in penicillin-allergic women who do not have immediate-type penicillin hypersensitivity, but clindamycin or erythromycin should be used in penicillin-allergic women at high risk for anaphylaxis.214
Consider that S. agalactiae (group B streptococci) with in vitro resistance to clindamycin and erythromycin has been reported with increasing frequency;214 perform in vitro susceptibility tests of clinical isolates obtained during GBS prenatal screening.214 GBS resistant to erythromycin often are resistant to clindamycin, although this may not be evident in results of in vitro testing.214 If in vitro susceptibility testing is not possible, results are unknown, or isolates are found to be resistant to erythromycin or clindamycin, vancomycin is recommended for intrapartum prophylaxis in penicillin-allergic women at high risk for anaphylaxis with β-lactams.214
Perioperative Prophylaxis
Perioperative prophylaxis† to reduce the incidence of infections in patients undergoing clean, contaminated head and neck surgery.125 140 Regimens of choice are IV clindamycin (with or without gentamicin) or IV cefazolin.125 140
Has been used for perioperative prophylaxis in patients undergoing nonperforated appendectomy†.140 Cephalosporins (cefazolin, cefoxitin) usually recommended for perioperative prophylaxis in patients undergoing GI procedures (e.g., esophageal and gastroduodenal surgery, biliary tract surgery, colorectal surgery, nonperforated appendectomy); 125 140 clindamycin in conjunction with gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, or aztreonam recommended in patients hypersensitive to cephalosporins.125
Clindamycin in conjunction with gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, or aztreonam recommended as an alternative to cephalosporins (cefazolin, cefoxitin) for perioperative prophylaxis in gynecologic and obstetric surgery (vaginal, abdominal, or laparoscopic hysterectomy)† in patients hypersensitive to cephalosporins (the preferred agents).125
Clindamycin in conjunction with gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, or aztreonam recommended for perioperative prophylaxis and postoperative treatment in contaminated or dirty surgery involving a perforated abdominal viscus† in patients hypersensitive to cephalosporins when cefoxitin (the preferred agent) cannot be used.125
Clindamycin Hydrochloride Dosage and Administration
Administration
Administer orally,121 126 IM,139 or by intermittent or continuous IV infusion.139 Do not administer by rapid IV injection.139
In the treatment of serious anaerobic infections, parenteral route usually used initially and oral clindamycin substituted when warranted by patient’s condition.121 126 In clinically appropriate circumstances, treatment may be initiated with oral clindamycin.121 126
Single IM doses should not exceed 600 mg, and no more than 1.2 g should be administered by IV infusion in a 1-hour period.139
Clindamycin phosphate ADD-Vantage vials and the commercially available clindamycin phosphate injection in 5% dextrose should be used only for IV infusion.139
For solution and drug compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.
Oral Administration
Clindamycin hydrochloride capsules126 and clindamycin palmitate hydrochloride oral solution121 can be administered without regard to food.
To avoid the possibility of esophageal irritation, administer clindamycin hydrochloride capsules with a full glass of water.126
ReconstitutionReconstitute clindamycin palmitate hydrochloride oral solution by adding 75 mL of water to the 100-mL bottle.121 A large portion of the water should be added initially and the bottle shaken vigorously; the remainder of the water should then be added and the bottle shaken until the solution is uniform.121 The resulting solution contains 75 mg of clindamycin/5 mL.121
IV Infusion
DilutionPrior to IV infusion, clindamycin phosphate injections (including ADD-Vantage vials) must be diluted with a compatible IV solution to a concentration ≤18 mg/mL.139 (See Rate of Administration under Dosage and Administration.)
The clindamycin phosphate pharmacy bulk package is not intended for direct IV infusion;139 doses of the drug from the bulk package must be further diluted in a compatible IV infusion solution prior to administration.139 The bulk package is intended for use only under a laminar flow hood.139 Entry into the vial should be made using a sterile transfer set or other sterile dispensing device, and the contents dispensed in aliquots using appropriate technique; multiple entries with a syringe and needle are not recommended because of the increased risk of microbial and particulate contamination.139 After entry into the bulk package vial, the entire contents should be used promptly and any unused portion discarded within 24 hours after initial entry.139
The commercially available clindamycin phosphate injections in 5% dextrose should not be used in series connections with other plastic containers, since such use could result in air embolism from residual air being drawn from the primary container before administration of fluid from the secondary container is complete.139
Rate of AdministrationBy intermittent IV infusion over a period of at least 10–60 minutes139 and at a rate ≤30 mg/minute.139 No more than 1.2 g should be given by IV infusion in a single 1-hour period.139
The manufacturers suggest that 300- or 600-mg doses be diluted in 50 mL of compatible diluent and infused over 10 or 20 minutes, respectively; 900-mg doses be diluted in 50–100 mL of diluent and infused over 30 minutes; or 1.2-g doses be diluted in 100 mL of diluent and infused over 40 minutes.139
Alternatively, the initial dose can be given as a single rapid infusion over 30 minutes followed by continuous IV infusion (see Table).139
Target Serum Clindamycin Concentrations | Infusion Rate for Initial Dose | Maintenance Infusion Rate |
---|---|---|
>4 mcg/mL | 10 mg/minute for 30 minutes | 0.75 mg/minute |
>5 mcg/mL | 15 mg/minute for 30 minutes | 1 mg/minute |
>6 mcg/mL | 20 mg/minute for 30 minutes | 1.25 mg/minute |
Dosage
Available as clindamycin hydrochloride,126 clindamycin palmitate hydrochloride,121 and clindamycin phosphate;139 dosage expressed in terms of clindamycin.121 126 139
Pediatric Patients
General Dosage in Neonates OralOral Solution: Manufacturer recommends 8–12 mg/kg daily for serious infections, 13–16 mg/kg daily for severe infections, and 17–25 mg/kg daily for more severe infections.121 Daily dosage is given in 3 or 4 equally divided doses.121 In children weighing ≤10 kg, manufacturer recommends a minimum dosage of 37.5 mg 3 times daily.121
Neonates <1 week of age: AAP recommends 5 mg/kg every 12 hours in those weighing ≤2 kg or 5 mg/kg every 8 hours in those weighing >2 kg.144
Neonates 1–4 weeks of age: AAP recommends 5 mg/kg every 12 hours in those weighing <1.2 kg, 5 mg/kg every 8 hours in those weighing 1.2–2 kg, and 5–7.5 mg/kg every 6 hours in those weighing >2 kg.144
IV or IMManufacturer recommends 15–20 mg/kg daily given in 3 or 4 equally divided doses.139 The lower dosage may be adequate for small, premature neonates.139
Neonates <1 week of age: AAP recommends 5 mg/kg every 12 hours in those weighing ≤2 kg or 5 mg/kg every 8 hours in those weighing >2 kg.144
Neonates 1–4 weeks of age: AAP recommends 5 mg/kg every 12 hours in those weighing <1.2 kg, 5 mg/kg every 8 hours in those weighing 1.2–2 kg, and 5–7.5 mg/kg every 6 hours in those weighing >2 kg.144
General Dosage in Children 1 Month to 16 Years of Age OralCapsules: Manufacturer recommends 8–16 mg/kg daily given in 3 or 4 equally divided doses for serious infections or 16–20 mg/kg daily given in 3 or 4 equally divided doses for more severe infections.126
Oral Solution: Manufacturer recommends 8–12 mg/kg daily for serious infections, 13–16 mg/kg daily for severe infections, and 17–25 mg/kg daily for more severe infections.121 Daily dosage is given in 3 or 4 equally divided doses.121 In children weighing ≤10 kg, manufacturer recommends a minimum dosage of 37.5 mg 3 times daily.121
AAP recommends 10–20 mg/kg daily given in 3 or 4 equally divided doses for mild to moderate infections.144 AAP states oral route inappropriate for severe infections.144
IV or IMManufacturer recommends 20–40 mg/kg daily given in 3 or 4 equally divided doses.139 Alternatively, manufacturer recommends 350 mg/m2 daily for serious infections or 450 mg/m2 daily for more severe infections.139
AAP recommends 15–25 mg/kg daily for mild to moderate infections and 25–40 mg/kg daily for severe infections.144 Daily dosage is given in 3 or 4 equally divided doses.144
Acute Otitis Media† (AOM) Oral30–40 mg/kg daily in 3 divided doses recommended by AAP and AAFP.253
Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis† Treatment of Symptomatic Patients with Multiple, Recurrent Episodes Known to Caused by Streptococcus pyogenes† Oral20–30 mg/kg daily in 3 divided doses given for 10 days.122
Babesiosis† OralIDSA recommends 7–10 mg/kg (up to 600 mg) every 6–8 hours for 7–10 days; used in conjunction with oral quinine (8 mg/kg [up to 650 mg] every 8 hours for 7–10 days).256 Others recommend 20–40 mg/kg daily in 3 divided doses given for 7–10 days;104 used in conjunction with oral quinine sulfate (25 mg/kg daily in 3 divided doses for 7–10 days).104 111 144
IVIDSA recommends 7–10 mg/kg (up to 600 mg) every 6–8 hours for 7–10 days; used in conjunction with oral quinine (8 mg/kg [up to 650 mg] every 8 hours for 7–10 days).256
Malaria† Treatment of Uncomplicated Chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum Malaria† Oral20 mg/kg daily in 3 equally divided doses given for 7 days;104 252 used in conjunction with oral quinine sulfate (10 mg/kg 3 times daily given for 3 days if infection was acquired in Africa or South America or for 7 days if acquired in Southeast Asia).104 252
Treatment of Severe P. falciparum Malaria† Oral20 mg/kg daily in 3 equally divided doses given for 7 days;252 used in conjunction with IV quinidine gluconate (followed by oral quinine sulfate) given for a total duration of 3–7 days.252
IV, then Oral10-mg/kg IV loading dose followed by 5 mg/kg IV every 8 hours; when oral therapy is tolerated, switch to oral clindamycin 20 mg/kg daily in 3 divided doses and continue for a total duration of 7 days.252
Used in conjunction with IV quinidine gluconate (followed by oral quinine sulfate) given for a total duration of 3–7 days.252
Pneumocystis jiroveci (Pneumocystis carinii) Pneumonia† Treatment of Mild to Moderate Infections† OralAdolescents: 300–450 mg every 6–8 hours given for 21 days;104 254 used in conjunction with oral primaquine (15–30 mg once daily for 21 days).104 254
IVAdolescents: 600–900 mg every 6–8 hours given for 21 days;104 254 used in conjunction with oral primaquine (15–30 mg once daily for 21 days).104 254
Toxoplasmosis† Treatment in Infants and Children† Oral or IV5–7.5 mg/kg (up to 600 mg) 4 times daily;255 used in conjunction with oral pyrimethamine (2 mg/kg once daily for 3 days then 1 mg/kg once daily) and oral leucovorin (10–25 mg once daily).255
Continue acute treatment for ≥6 weeks; a longer duration may be appropriate if disease is extensive or response incomplete at 6 weeks.255
Treatment in Adolescents† Oral or IV600 mg every 6 hours;254 used in conjunction with oral pyrimethamine (200-mg loading dose then 50–75 mg once daily) and oral leucovorin (10–20 mg once daily; higher dosage may be needed).254
Continue acute treatment for ≥6 weeks; longer duration may be appropriate if disease is extensive or response incomplete at 6 weeks.254
Prevention of Recurrence (Secondary Prophylaxis) in Infants and Children† Oral20–30 mg/kg daily in 4 divided doses;210 used in conjunction with oral pyrimethamine (1 mg/kg or 15 mg/m2 once daily) and oral leucovorin (5 mg once every 3 days).210
Secondary prophylaxis against toxoplasmosis generally is continued for life.210 The safety of discontinuing secondary toxoplasmosis prophylaxis in HIV-infected infants and children receiving potent antiretroviral therapy has not been extensively studied.210
Prevention of Recurrence (Secondary Prophylaxis) in Adolescents† OralDosage for secondary prophylaxis against toxoplasmosis in adolescents and criteria for initiation or discontinuance of such prophylaxis in this age group are the same as those recommended for adults.210 (See Adult Dosage under Dosage and Administration.)
Prevention of Bacterial Endocarditis† Patients Undergoing Certain Dental or Respiratory Tract Procedures† Oral20 mg/kg as a single dose given 30–60 minutes prior to the procedure.141
IM or IV20 mg/kg as a single dose given 30–60 minutes prior to the procedure.141
Perioperative Prophylaxis† Head or Neck Surgery† IV15 mg/kg given at induction of anesthesia (within 0.5–1 hour prior to incision); used with or without IV gentamicin.140 Additional intraoperative doses suggested every 3–6 hours for prolonged procedures (>4 hours) or if major blood loss occurs.125
Adults
General Adult Dosage Serious Infections Oral150–300 mg every 6 hours.126
IV or IM600 mg to 1.2 g daily in 2–4 equally divided doses.139
More Severe Infections Oral300–450 mg every 6 hours.126
IV or IM1.2–2.7 g daily in 2–4 equally divided doses.139
For life-threatening infections, dosage may be increased up 4.8 g daily.139
Gynecologic Infections Pelvic Inflammatory Disease IV, then OralInitially, 900 mg IV every 8 hours;124 128 257 used in conjunction with IV or IM gentamicin.124 128 257 After clinical improvement occurs, discontinue IV clindamycin and gentamicin and switch to oral clindamycin in a dosage of 450 mg 4 times daily to complete 14 days of therapy.128 Alternatively, oral doxycycline can be used to complete 14 days of therapy.124 128
Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis† Treatment of Symptomatic Patients with Multiple, Recurrent Episodes Known to Caused by Streptococcus pyogenes† Oral600 mg daily in 2–4 divided doses given for 10 days.122 IDSA states this dosage was not specifically studied in adults and was extrapolated from pediatric dosage recommendation.122
Anthrax† Treatment of Inhalational Anthrax† IV900 mg every 8 hours.119
Used in multiple-drug regimens that initially include IV ciprofloxacin or IV doxycycline and 1 or 2 other anti-infectives predicted to be effective.103 116 117 119
Duration of treatment is 60 days if anthrax occurred as the result of exposure to anthrax spores in the context of biologic warfare or bioterrorism.103 117
Babesiosis† Oral600 mg 3 times daily given for 7–10 days recommended by IDSA and others;104 256 used in conjunction with oral quinine (650 mg every 6–8 hours for 7–10 days).104 111 256
IVIDSA recommends 300–600 mg every 6 hours for 7–10 days; used in conjunction with oral quinine (650 mg every 6–8 hours for 7–10 days).256 Others recommend 1.2 g twice daily given for 7–10 days;104 used in conjunction with oral quinine (650 mg 3 times daily for 7–10 days).104 111
Bacterial Vaginosis† Treatment in Pregnant or Nonpregnant Women† Oral300 mg twice daily given for 7 days.124 128 180 183 193 196 197
Malaria† Treatment of Uncomplicated Chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum Malaria† Oral20 mg/kg daily in 3 equally divided doses given for 7 days;104 252 used in conjunction with oral quinine sulfate (650 mg 3 times daily given for 3 days if infection was acquired in Africa or South America or for 7 days if acquired in Southeast Asia).104 252
Treatment of Severe P. falciparum Malaria† Oral20 mg/kg daily in 3 equally divided doses given for 7 days;104 252 used in conjunction with IV quinidine gluconate (followed by oral quinine sulfate) given for a total duration of 3–7 days.104 252
IV, then Oral10-mg/kg IV loading dose followed by 5 mg/kg IV every 8 hours; when oral therapy is tolerated, switch to oral clindamycin 20 mg/kg daily in 3 divided doses and continue for a total duration of 7 days.252
Used in conjunction with IV quinidine gluconate (followed by oral quinine sulfate) given for a total duration of 3–7 days.252
Pneumocystis jiroveci (Pneumocystis carinii) Pneumonia† Treatment of Mild to Moderate Infections† Oral300–450 mg every 6–8 hours given for 21 days;104 254 used in conjunction with oral primaquine (15–30 mg once daily for 21 days).104 254
IV600–900 mg every 6–8 hours given for 21 days;104 254 used in conjunction with oral primaquine (15–30 mg once daily for 21 days).104 254
Toxoplasmosis† Treatment† Oral or IV600 mg every 6 hours;254 used in conjunction with oral pyrimethamine (200-mg loading dose then 50–75 mg once daily) and oral leucovorin (10–20 mg once daily; higher dosage may be needed).254
Continue acute treatment for ≥6 weeks.254
Prevention of Recurrence (Secondary Prophylaxis)† Oral300–450 mg every 6–8 hours;210 254 used in conjunction with oral pyrimethamine (25–50 mg once daily) and oral leucovorin (10–25 mg once daily).210 254
Initiate long-term suppressive therapy or chronic maintenance therapy (secondary prophylaxis) in all patients who have completed initial treatment of toxoplasmosis encephalitis (TE).210
Consideration can be given to discontinuing secondary prophylaxis in adults or adolescents who successfully completed initial treatment for TE, are asymptomatic with respect to TE, and have a sustained (≥6 months) increase in CD4+ T-cell counts to >200/mm3.210 254
Reinitiate secondary prophylaxis if CD4+ T-cell count decreases to <200/mm3.210 254
Prevention of Bacterial Endocarditis† Patients Undergoing Certain Dental or Respiratory Tract Procedures† Oral600 mg as a single dose given 30–60 minutes prior to the procedure.141
IM or IV600 mg as a single dose given 30–60 minutes prior to the procedure.141
Prevention of Perinatal Group B Streptococcal Disease† Women at Risk Who Should Not Receive β-lactam Anti-infectives† IV900 mg every 8 hours; initiate at time of labor or rupture of membranes and continue until delivery.214
Perioperative Prophylaxis† Head or Neck Surgery† IV600–900 mg given at induction of anesthesia (within 0.5–1 hour prior to incision); used with or without IV gentamicin.125 140 Additional intraoperative doses suggested every 3–6 hours for prolonged procedures (>4 hours) or if major blood loss occurs.125
Special Populations
Hepatic Impairment
Dosage adjustments not necessary in those with mild or moderate hepatic impairment.126 139
Renal Impairment
Dosage adjustments not necessary in those with mild or moderate renal impairment.126 139
Clindamycin Hydrochloride Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Bioavailability
Approximately 90% of an oral dose of clindamycin hydrochloride rapidly absorbed from GI tract;126 peak serum concentration attained within 45–60 minutes.126 d
Prior to absorption, clindamycin palmitate hydrochloride is hydrolyzed in the GI tract to active clindamycin.d
Clindamycin palmitate oral solution and clindamycin hydrochloride capsules are bioequivalent.d
Following IM administration of clindamycin phosphate, peak serum concentrations occur within 3 hours in adults and 1 hour in children.d
Food
Although peak plasma concentrations may be delayed, food does not have an appreciable effect on the extent of absorption of clindamycin hydrochloride capsules126 or clindamycin palmitate hydrochloride oral solution.121
Distribution
Extent
Distributed into many body tissues and fluids.d
Only small amounts of the drug diffuse into CSF.d
Readily crosses the placentad and is distributed into milk.100
Plasma Protein Binding
93%.d
Elimination
Metabolism
Partially metabolized to bioactive and inactive metabolites.d
Elimination Route
Excreted in urine, bile, and feces.d
Half-life
2–3 hours in adults and children with normal renal function.d
Serum half-life in neonates depends on gestational and chronologic age and body weight.102
Special Populations
Serum half-life increased slightly in patients with markedly reduced renal or hepatic function.d
Stability
Storage
Oral
Capsules20–25°C.126
For Solution20–25°C.121 Following reconstitution, stable for 2 weeks at room temperature; do not refrigerate because solution will thicken.121
Parenteral
Injection, for IV infusion20–25°C;139 avoid temperatures >30°C.139
Compatibility
For information on systemic interactions resulting from concomitant use, see Interactions.
Parenteral
Solution CompatibilityHID Compatible |
---|
Amino acids 4.25%, dextrose 25% |
Dextrose 2.5% in Ringer’s injection, lactated |
Dextrose 5% in Ringer’s injection |
Dextrose 5% in sodium chloride 0.45 or 0.9% |
Dextrose 5 or 10% in water |
Isolyte M or P with dextrose 5% |
Normosol R |
Ringer’s injection, lactated |
Sodium chloride 0.9% |
Compatible |
---|
Amikacin sulfate |
Ampicillin sodium |
Aztreonam |
Cefazolin sodium |
Cefepime HCl |
Cefotaxime sodium |
Cefoxitin sodium |
Ceftazidime |
Cefuroxime sodium |
Fluconazole |
Gentamicin sulfate |
Heparin sodium |
Hydrocortisone sodium succinate |
Methylprednisolone sodium succinate |
Metoclopramide HCl |
Potassium chloride |
Sodium bicarbonate |
Tobramycin sulfate |
Verapamil HCl |
Incompatible |
Aminophylline |
Ceftriaxone sodium |
Ciprofloxacin |
Gentamicin sulfate with cefazolin sodium |
Variable |
Ranitidine HCl |
Compatible |
---|
Acyclovir sodium |
Amifostine |
Amiodarone HCl |
Amphotericin B cholesteryl sulfate complex |
Anakinra |
Anidulafungin |
Aztreonam |
Bivalirudin |
Ceftaroline fosamil |
Cisatracurium besylate |
Cyclophosphamide |
Dexmedetomidine HCl |
Diltiazem HCl |
Docetaxel |
Doxorubicin HCl liposome injection |
Enalaprilat |
Esmolol HCl |
Etoposide phosphate |
Fenoldopam mesylate |
Fludarabine phosphate |
Foscarnet sodium |
Gemcitabine HCl |
Granisetron HCl |
Heparin sodium |
Hetastarch in lactated electrolyte injection (Hextend) |
Hydromorphone HCl |
Hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 in sodium chloride 0.9% |
Labetalol HCl |
Levofloxacin |
Linezolid |
Magnesium sulfate |
Melphalan HCl |
Meperidine HCl |
Midazolam HCl |
Milrinone lactate |
Morphine sulfate |
Multivitamins |
Nicardipine HCl |
Ondansetron HCl |
Pemetrexed disodium |
Piperacillin sodium–tazobactam sodium |
Propofol |
Remifentanil HCl |
Sargramostim |
Tacrolimus |
Teniposide |
Theophylline |
Thiotepa |
Vinorelbine tartrate |
Zidovudine |
Incompatible |
Allopurinol sodium |
Azithromycin |
Caspofungin acetate |
Doxapram HCl |
Filgrastim |
Fluconazole |
Idarubicin HCl |
Advice to Patients
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Advise patients that antibacterials (including clindamycin) should only be used to treat bacterial infections and not used to treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold).121 126 139
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Importance of completing full course of therapy, even if feeling better after a few days.121 126 139
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Advise patients that skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may decrease effectiveness and increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable with clindamycin or other antibacterials in the future.121 126 139
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Clindamycin hydrochloride capsules and clindamycin palmitate hydrochloride oral solution can be taken without regard to meals.121 126
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Take clindamycin hydrochloride capsules with a full glass of water to avoid the possibility of esophageal irritation.126
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Importance of discontinuing drug and informing clinician if significant diarrhea occurs.121 126 139
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Importance of informing clinicians of existing or contemplated therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs, and any concomitant illnesses
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Importance of women informing clinician if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed.
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Importance of advising patients of other important precautionary information. (See Cautions.)