Pharmacology of Clindamycin : Mnemonic

Class: Lincosamide

Mechanism of action: Binds 50S subunit of ribosome and inhibits translation – bacteriostatic (Remember the mnemonic: buy AT 30 & CELLS at 50)

Spectrum: Gram positive and Anaerobes

Mnemonic: PAST

1. Penicillinase producing Staphylococci
2. Anaerobes (Bacteroides, Clostridium, Fusobacterium)
3. Streptococci (Viridans, Pyogenes, Pneumoniae)
4. Toxoplasma

Uses:

Mnemonic: PAST

1. Peritonitis, Pelvic abscess, Prophylaxis in dentistry
2. Aspiration pneumonia, Acne, Anaerobic infections
3. Septic abortion, Staphylococcus aureus infection (musculoskeletal infections)
4. Toxoplasmosis

Adverse effects:

Mnemonic: PAST

1. Pseudomembranous colitis
2. Abdominal pain
3. Skin (rashes, urticaria), Skeletal muscle paralysis (high dose and long-term use)
4. Toxic megacolon