Cotrimoxazole and clindamycin in skin and soft tissue infections

Abstract

Purpose of review: The aim of this study was to present recent microbiological, experimental, clinical and tolerance data for cotrimoxazole and clindamycin in the specific field of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs).

Recent findings: Staphylococcus aureus and streptococci remain the leading cause of SSTIs. Cotrimoxazole is a good anti-Gram-positive agent with preserved activity against methicillin-susceptible and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and streptococci. Although clindamycin has good methicillin-susceptible S. aureus activity, a growing number of resistant MRSA and streptococci have been reported. Strong experimental data support the antitoxin activity of clindamycin, but clinical observations remain scarce. Several recent randomized trials involving cotrimoxazole and/or clindamycin demonstrate the efficacy and tolerance of both drugs. The oral formulation of both drugs may facilitate the implementation of early switch and early discharge protocols in clinical practice.

Summary: Recent publications demonstrate that cotrimoxazole and clindamycin remain reliable and realistic therapeutic approaches for SSTIs.