Which common adverse effect is associated with prolonged use of clindamycin?

Prepare efficiently for the USMLE Step 2 with our Antibiotics and Treatments Exam. Explore detailed questions, gain insights with comprehensive explanations, and boost your confidence for success! Ace your exam!

Clindamycin's association with Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) as a common adverse effect stems from its mechanism of action as a lincosamide antibiotic. Clindamycin is effective against various anaerobic and Gram-positive bacteria, but its use can lead to alterations in the normal gut flora. These alterations allow for the overgrowth of C. difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can cause antibiotic-associated diarrhea and, in severe cases, pseudomembranous colitis.

The risk of CDI increases with prolonged use of clindamycin due to its ability to disrupt the balance of intestinal microbiota. Such disruption can facilitate the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, particularly C. difficile, which can produce toxins leading to inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining.

While the other potential adverse effects, such as dehydration, skin irritation, and metallic taste, may occasionally occur in patients taking different medications or have specific side effects, they are not as strongly associated with clindamycin as CDI. Therefore, the emphasis on Clostridium difficile infection in the context of prolonged clindamycin use is crucial for clinicians to consider when prescribing this antibiotic and managing a patient’s overall antibiotic regimen.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy