Lincomycin
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 3, 2022.
Clostridioides difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including lincomycin, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.Because lincomycin therapy has been associated with severe colitis which may end fatally, it should be reserved for serious infections where less toxic antimicrobials agents are inappropriate. It should not be used in patients with nonbacterial infections such as most upper respiratory tract infections.C difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Lincocin
Available Dosage Forms:
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic
Chemical Class: Lincosamide
Uses for lincomycin
Lincomycin injection treats bacterial infections. It may be also given to patients who have an allergic reaction to penicillin antibiotics.
Lincomycin belongs to the family of medicines called antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, lincomycin will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.
Lincomycin is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.
Before using lincomycin
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For lincomycin, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to lincomycin or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of lincomycin injection in children younger than 1 month of age. Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Geriatric
No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of lincomycin injection in geriatric patients.
Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Interactions with medicines
Although certain medicines should ..
