In-vivo effects of clindamycin on polymorphonuclear leucocyte phagocytosis and killing of gram-negative organisms.

Polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMNL) phagocytosis and killing were evaluated in ten healthy volunteers who had received 600 mg of clindamycin intramuscularly. Serum obtained 3 h after the administration of clindamycin significantly increased PMNL phagocytosis and killing of Gram-negative aerobic organisms. Serum obtained at 12 and 24 h after the administration of the drug did not induce a significant increase in PMNL phagocytosis and killing. The administration of clindamycin had no direct effect on the PMNLs in terms of their phagocytic and bactericidal function. These results demonstrate serum-associated augmentation of PMNL function by clindamycin in vivo which may be of potential clinical benefit in the outcome of infections.