SickKids logo
Antimicrobials
Clindamycin

Clindamycin

High
Excellent
IV: $$-$$$ PO: $-$$

Spectrum of Activity

Antibiogram Data
​

General Information

Empiric use for S. aureus infections should be used with caution due to high rates of resistance for MRSA and MSSA.

Vancomycin is preferred for surgical prophylaxis due to high rates of *S. aureus resistance to clindamycin.

  • Necrotizing fasciitis: In combination with cloxacillin +/- vancomycin
  • Facial Cellulitis of Dental Origin/Dental Abscess
  • Retropharyngeal Abscess: +/- cloxacillin
  • Dog, cat, or human bite: In penicillin-allergic patients, with ciprofloxacin
  • Puncture wound of foot with sneakers: In penicillin-allergic patients with ciprofloxacin

ODB Funded (capsule, gel, injection)

High risk of Clostridium difficile infection

Observe for changes in bowel frequency; during prolonged therapy, monitor CBC with differential, platelet count, and hepatic and renal function tests periodically

  • Can be taken without regard to food. Excellent bioavailability
  • Take with a glass of water to avoid esophageal irritation

Neonatal:

  • Do not administer enterally to neonates <7 days old
  • For enteral administration to neonates >7 days of age, use the formulation for injection

Infants and Older Children:

  • Give capsule PO with food or a full glass of water to avoid esophageal ulceration

When necessary, capsules may be opened and contents given mixed in a small amount of fluid or soft food. Patients should also take a full glass of fluid with drug and be discouraged from lying down for 30 minutes after ingestion. Supine positioning and small fluid volumes have been associated with esophageal ulceration.