The antibiotic daptomycin is used to treat many serious bacterial infections, such as those caused by gram-positive bacteria, including those that are resistant to many other antibiotics.
Daptomycin works by interfering with the bacteria's cell membrane, which results in rapid death of the bacteria.
Daptomycin
|
Common Uses |
Some Side Effects |
Comments |
|
Complicated skin infections, bloodstream infections, and certain heart valve infections (endocarditis) due to susceptible bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci |
Gastrointestinal upset Muscle pain and weakness |
Not used when infection involves the lungs because it is made inactivate by surfactant (a substance normally produced in the lungs) |
(See also Overview of Antibiotics.)
Use of Daptomycin During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Daptomycin should be used during pregnancy only when the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. (See also Drug Use During Pregnancy.)
Whether daptomycin is safe to use during breastfeeding is unknown. (See also Drug Use During Breastfeeding.)
Drugs Mentioned In This Article
| Generic Name | Select Brand Names |
|---|---|
vancomycin |
VANCOCIN |
daptomycin |
CUBICIN |
