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Vancomycin plus Rifampin

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Vancomycin and rifampin work synergistically to inhibit bacterial cell wall and protein synthesis, providing broad-spectrum bactericidal activity against resistant gram-positive organisms.

Vancomycin and rifampin work synergistically to inhibit bacterial cell wall and protein synthesis, providing broad-spectrum bactericidal activity against resistant gram-positive organisms. Used for Serious infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Bacterial endocarditis, Osteomyelitis and other bone/joint infections.

At a glance

Generic nameVancomycin plus Rifampin
SponsorMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Drug classAntibiotic combination
TargetBacterial cell wall (vancomycin) and bacterial RNA polymerase (rifampin)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaInfectious Disease
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Vancomycin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to D-Ala-D-Ala peptidoglycan precursors, while rifampin inhibits bacterial RNA polymerase to suppress protein synthesis. This combination is particularly effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other resistant gram-positive bacteria, with demonstrated synergy in treating serious infections including endocarditis and osteomyelitis.

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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