70. Which of the following antibiotic suspensions must be refrigerated?
Answer: B
Clindamycin (Cleocin) must be refrigerated.
Clindamycin (Cleocin) is an antibiotic suspension that requires refrigeration to maintain its stability and effectiveness.
A) Azithromycin (Zithromax)
Azithromycin (Zithromax) does not require refrigeration and can be stored at room temperature. This makes it less sensitive to temperature variations compared to other antibiotics.
B) Clindamycin (Cleocin)
Clindamycin (Cleocin) must be refrigerated to ensure its potency and stability over time. Without proper refrigeration, the suspension may degrade, leading to reduced effectiveness.
C) Cephalexin (Keflex)
Cephalexin (Keflex) does not need refrigeration and can be safely stored at room temperature. It remains stable at these conditions, making it more convenient for storage than some other antibiotic suspensions.
D) Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (Septra)
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (Septra) is also stable at room temperature and does not require refrigeration. This allows for easier handling and storage in various settings.
Conclusion
Clindamycin (Cleocin) is the only option among those listed that must be refrigerated to ensure its effectiveness, while the other antibiotics can be stored at room temperature without compromising their stability. Understanding the storage requirements of various medications is crucial for maintaining their efficacy and safety.