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Colistin/Polymyxin B + Sulbactam

National University of Singapore · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Colistin and polymyxin B disrupt bacterial cell membranes while sulbactam inhibits bacterial β-lactamases, together providing broad-spectrum activity against multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria.

Colistin and polymyxin B disrupt bacterial cell membranes while sulbactam inhibits bacterial β-lactamases, together providing broad-spectrum activity against multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria. Used for Multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacterial infections (Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa), Hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated pneumonia caused by resistant organisms.

At a glance

Generic nameColistin/Polymyxin B + Sulbactam
SponsorNational University of Singapore
Drug classPolymyxin antibiotic + β-lactamase inhibitor combination
TargetBacterial cell membrane (polymyxins); bacterial β-lactamases (sulbactam)
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, causing cell lysis and death. Sulbactam is a β-lactamase inhibitor that protects β-lactam antibiotics from enzymatic degradation and has intrinsic antibacterial activity. This combination targets multidrug-resistant organisms, particularly Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

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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