Lincomycin
Lincocin, Lincomycin-R, Lincomycin-Zafa, Lincomycin-H, Linco-HCl
Lincosamide Antibiotic
Lincomycin is a bacteriostatic antibiotic used to treat serious Gram-positive bacterial infections. It inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit. Lincomycin is closely related to clindamycin and is effective against infections caused by staphylococci, streptococci, and anaerobic bacteria.
Severe infections caused by Gram-positive cocci: Skin and soft tissue infections Bone and joint infections (osteomyelitis) Respiratory tract infections Septicemia Anaerobic infections: Intra-abdominal infections Pelvic infections Alternative in patients allergic to penicillin
Hypersensitivity to lincomycin or clindamycin History of antibiotic-associated colitis Caution in patients with liver disease
IV/IM: 600–1200 mg/day divided every 8–12 hours Oral: 500 mg every 6–8 hours Maximum daily dose: 1.8 g/day Pediatrics: 10–40 mg/kg/day in 3–4 divided doses Adjust dose in: Severe hepatic impairment → reduce dose Renal impairment → not usually required, monitor closely
Severe infections caused by Gram-positive cocci: Skin and soft tissue infections Bone and joint infections (osteomyelitis) Respiratory tract infections Septicemia Anaerobic infections: Intra-abdominal infections Pelvic infections Alternative in patients allergic to penicillin
Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rash, urticaria Serious: Pseudomembranous colitis (C. difficile-associated diarrhea) Hepatotoxicity (elevated liver enzymes) Allergic reactions (anaphylaxis in rare cases) Neutropenia or thrombocytopenia (rare)
Use only if clearly needed.
Caution advised
Monitor for signs of colitis during or after therapy Use with caution in liver disease Avoid unnecessary prolonged therapy to reduce risk of resistant organisms May interact with neuromuscular blocking agents → enhance muscle relaxation
Lincomycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, inhibiting protein synthesis. This prevents bacterial growth (bacteriostatic) and helps the immune system clear the infection.
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