Effect of clindamycin on growth and haemolysin production by Escherichia coli

The effect of clindamycin on growth and haemolysin production by four strains of Escherichia coli was tested. Clindamycin MICs were greater than 256 mg/l for all strains. Clindamycin concentrations of 16-256 mg/l significantly inhibited growth, while concentrations from 2-32 mg/l significantly inhibited haemolysin production. Administration of clindamycin to rats with peritonitis due to haemolytic E. coli reduced mortality. Subinhibitory concentrations of clindamycin can inhibit growth and haemolysin production by E. coli and reduce mortality in an animal model of haemolytic E. coli peritonitis.