Dalfopristin

Dalfopristin is a semisynthetic antibiotic belonging to the streptogramin class. It is used in combination with quinupristin to form the antibiotic quinupristin/dalfopristin, which is marketed under the brand name Synercid. This combination is effective against certain Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE).

Mechanism of Action[edit]

Dalfopristin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, thereby preventing the elongation of the protein chain. This action is synergistic with quinupristin, which binds to a nearby site on the ribosome, enhancing the overall inhibitory effect on protein synthesis.

Clinical Use[edit]

Dalfopristin, in combination with quinupristin, is primarily used to treat infections caused by resistant strains of bacteria. It is particularly useful in treating infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecium that are resistant to other antibiotics. The combination is administered intravenously and is reserved for serious infections where other treatments have failed.

Side Effects[edit]

Common side effects of dalfopristin/quinupristin include arthralgia (joint pain), myalgia (muscle pain), and gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and vomiting. Some patients may experience injection site reactions due to the intravenous administration of the drug.

Resistance[edit]

Bacterial resistance to dalfopristin can occur through several mechanisms, including modification of the target site on the ribosome, enzymatic inactivation of the drug, and efflux pumps that remove the drug from the bacterial cell. Resistance is more commonly observed in Enterococcus faecalis, which is intrinsically resistant to quinupristin/dalfopristin.

Related Pages[edit]

Types of antibacterials

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