Quinupristin/dalfopristin

Quinupristin/dalfopristin is a combination of two antibiotics, quinupristin and dalfopristin, used to treat infections by bacteria. It is marketed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer under the brand name Synercid.

Etymology

The name "quinupristin" is derived from the chemical structure of the drug, which contains a quinuclidine ring. The name "dalfopristin" is also derived from the chemical structure, which contains a dalfo ring.

Pharmacology

Quinupristin/dalfopristin is a streptogramin antibiotic, which means it inhibits the synthesis of bacterial proteins, leading to the death of the bacteria. It is used to treat serious or life-threatening infections caused by susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and certain Enterococcus species.

Clinical use

Quinupristin/dalfopristin is used to treat vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREF) infections, as well as skin and skin structure infections caused by methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and Streptococcus pyogenes. It is also used in the treatment of bacteremia.

Side effects

Common side effects of quinupristin/dalfopristin include pain and inflammation at the injection site, nausea, vomiting, rash, and diarrhea. Serious side effects can include allergic reactions, damage to the liver, and superinfections with resistant organisms.

Related terms

• Antibiotic
• Streptogramin
• Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium
• Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus
• Streptococcus pyogenes
• Bacteremia

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