LincomycinDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cats, Dogs, Pigs and Poultry.

Lincosamide antibiotic; blocks bacterial protein synthesis, active against gram-positive and anaerobic organisms. Lincomycin is FDA-approved in dogs and cats for infections caused by susceptible gram-positive organisms, particularly streptococci and staphylococci. It is also approved in swine for the treatment of infectious arthritis and mycoplasma pneumonia. Lincomycin is also FDA-approved to control American foulbrood in honey bees. Lincomycin is considered a first-tier antimicrobial for the treatment of b

The lincosamide antibiotics, lincomycin and clindamycin, share mechanisms of action and have similar spectrums of activity, although lincomycin is usually less active. Complete cross-resistance occurs between the 2 drugs, and at least partial cross-resistance occurs between the lincosamides and erythromycin.

Although there have been case reports of parenteral administration of lincosamides to horses, cattle, and sheep, the lincosamides are considered contraindicated for use in horses, ruminants, rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs because of serious GI effects that may occur, including death. Lincomycin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it or to clindamycin or patients having a pre-existing monilial (ie, candidiasis) infection.

Adverse effects reported in dogs and cats include gastroenteritis, emesis, and loose stools, and, infrequently, bloody diarrhea in dogs. IM injections reportedly cause pain at the injection site. Rapid IV administration can cause hypotension and cardiopulmonary arrest. Swine may develop GI disturbances while receiving the medication. Fatal colitis can occur in horses. In humans, adverse effects include stomatitis, nausea, vomiting, neutropenia, leukopenia, and skin rashes.

■ Clinical efficacy ■ Adverse effects, particularly severe diarrheas ■ Hepatic and renal function

A withdrawal interval is stated for this drug. It depends on the formulation, route and dose, so read the exact wording in the interactive drug guide before treating a food animal.