🍽️ colistin sulfate (antibiotic)

Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Infections: Colistin is primarily used to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria, including Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and various species of Enterobacteriaceae such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. These bacteria are often resistant to other antibiotics, making colistin a critical treatment option for serious infections.

Hospital-Acquired Infections: Colistin is frequently used in hospitals to treat infections acquired in healthcare settings, including ventilator-associated pneumonia, bloodstream infections, urinary tract infections, and surgical site infections caused by multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria.

Cystic Fibrosis: Colistin inhalation therapy is sometimes used in patients with cystic fibrosis who have chronic pulmonary infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Inhaled colistin helps reduce bacterial colonization in the lungs and can improve respiratory symptoms in these patients.

Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP): Colistin is often included in the treatment regimens for ventilator-associated pneumonia, particularly when caused by multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria. It may be administered intravenously or via inhalation, depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's clinical condition.

Sepsis and Septic Shock: Colistin may be used as part of the treatment for sepsis and septic shock caused by multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria. It is typically administered intravenously in combination with other antibiotics to control the infection and stabilize the patient's condition.

Meningitis: Colistin has limited penetration into the central nervous system (CNS) and is not typically used to treat meningitis. However, it may be considered in cases of multidrug-resistant gram-negative meningitis when no other treatment options are available.

Intra-abdominal Infections: Colistin may be used to treat intra-abdominal infections caused by multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria, particularly in cases where surgical intervention is not feasible or when other antibiotics have failed.

Adverse Effects: Common side effects of colistin include nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) and neurotoxicity (nerve damage), particularly when administered intravenously at higher doses. Other adverse effects may include gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, and electrolyte imbalances.

Antibiotic Resistance: The emergence of colistin-resistant bacteria, including strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, is a growing concern globally. The prudent use of colistin and infection control measures are essential to minimize the development and spread of antibiotic resistance.