Synercid

What is it?

An antibacterial, streptogramin preparation available as a powder in vials containing 150mg of quinupristin as mesilate and 350mg of dalfopristin as mesilate.

Medical Uses

Infections caused by Gram- positive bacteria where no other treatment is possible, including skin and soft tissue infections, pneumonia caused by nocosomia and infections caused byE. faecium.

Dosage

Adults, 7.5mg per kg of body weight by intravenous infusion given over 1 hour. Dose frequency and length of treatment varies according to location and type of infection. Manufacturer's literature should be consulted.

Special Care

Pregnancy, liver or kidney disorders.

Avoid Use

Children, breastfeeding.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Tacrolimus, drugs metabolised by CYP3A4 (an enzyme).

Known Side Effects

Itching, rash, reactions at injection site, muscle and joint pain, headache, generalised pain, gastrointestinal upset, high bilirubin levels in blood, changes in haematology and blood chemistry. Any adverse side effects should be reported to the Committee on the Safety of Medicines (CSM).

Manufacturer

Aventis.