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Colistin/Polymyxin B + Meropenem

National University of Singapore · FDA-approved active Small molecule

This combination uses colistin/polymyxin B to disrupt bacterial cell membranes while meropenem inhibits cell wall synthesis, providing synergistic activity against multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria.

This combination uses colistin/polymyxin B to disrupt bacterial cell membranes while meropenem inhibits cell wall synthesis, providing synergistic activity against multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria. Used for Multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacterial infections, Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections, Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections resistant to standard therapy.

At a glance

Generic nameColistin/Polymyxin B + Meropenem
SponsorNational University of Singapore
Drug classAntibiotic combination (polymyxin + carbapenem)
TargetBacterial cell membrane (polymyxins) and bacterial cell wall/penicillin-binding proteins (meropenem)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaInfectious Disease
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Colistin and polymyxin B are cationic cyclic peptides that bind to and disrupt the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria, increasing permeability. Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem beta-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding penicillin-binding proteins. The combination is designed to overcome resistance mechanisms and provide enhanced bactericidal activity against difficult-to-treat infections, particularly those caused by carbapenem-resistant organisms.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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