Cell Membrane Agents

Question 1

Which are the cell membrane integrity agents?

Answer 1

• Polymyxins

- Daptomycin (CUBICIN)

Question 2

What are the characteristics of polymyxins?

Answer 2

• Bind to Gram - outer membrane and alters permeability
• Not effective against G+
• Toxicity limits it to topical use
• Colistin/Polymyxin E
• Neosporin (Polymyxin B)

Question 3

What are the characteristics of Daptomycin?

Answer 3

• For treatment of G+ infections
• Used for complicated skin and skin structure infections (burns, abscesses/ulcers that invade deeper tissues)
• Can treat MRSA
• IV
• Generally reserved for life-threatening infections (from resistant bacteria)
• Can be the cause of C. difficile related pseudomembranous colitis