Quinupristin/Dalfopristin (Synercid) Antibiotic Drug: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Quinupristin/dalfopristin
(Synercid, United States and Canada)

Use:

The quinupristin and dalfopristin combination is a synergistic antibiotic which uses streptogramins.
It is used in resistant infections - vancomycin resistant enterococci, methicillin resistant staphloccocus, penicillin resistant pneumococcus.

How It Works:

The combination antibiotic inhibits bacterial protein synthesis effectively eradicating the infection.

Side Effects:

The most frequent side effects of the combination are local irritation, muscle aches, and generalized malaise.

Cautions for People:

Because the combination antibiotic can produce elevated liver enzymes, people with liver disease should use these streptogramin antibiotics under medical supervision.

Drug Interactions:

The combination antibiotic is often used in combination with other antibacterial agents.

Further Reading:

FDC Reports 1996;58(2):T&G-12
Diag Microbiol Infect Dis 1995;21:169
Drugs 1996;51Suppl1:6

Added to Virtual Drugstore November 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.