Among the following antibiotics, which carries the HIGHEST attributable risk of Clostridioides difficile colitis per course of therapy?
- A Clindamycin ✓
- B Aminoglycosides
- C Macrolides
- D Tetracyclines
Correct answer: A. Clindamycin
Explanation
Clindamycin has historically carried the highest risk of C. difficile infection among antibiotics because of its profound suppression of anaerobic gut flora, and it remains a classic exam answer. Second-generation cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones are intermediate-risk groups. Aminoglycosides are poorly absorbed orally and spare gut anaerobes when given parenterally, making them low risk. Macrolides and tetracyclines also carry comparatively low risk.
Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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