The CDC and Spectinomycin

Pfizer discontinued US distribution of spectinomycin (Trobicin®) in November 2005; remaining inventory expired in May 2006 [1]. Nonetheless, at the FDA website we still find a Package Insert for Trobicin updated as late as Aug 2012, a thin 6-page leaflet which Continue reading The CDC and Spectinomycin

Inconclusive Data in IA: Experts Fill the Void To Avoid Horror Vacui

Often we come across a study which raises more questions than it answers.  Sometimes we read a study publication again and again, and still we cannot figure out what the take-away learning is, as results are simply inconclusive or discordant. Continue reading Inconclusive Data in IA: Experts Fill the Void To Avoid Horror Vacui

Progress Report: New Antibacterials In the Fight against MDR Bacteria

Since the beginning of this millennium we have seen antibiotic R&D dwindle year after year. There are many reasons for this; while economics are often cited for this decline, the FDA and the ‘Guideline Wars’, i.e., those never ending discussions Continue reading Progress Report: New Antibacterials In the Fight against MDR Bacteria

Quo Vadis, CDI Drugs?

There are only 3 CDI drugs in wider clinical use: vancomycin, metronidazole, and fidaxomicin. They are from totally different classes and have almost nothing in common except for proven efficacy in C. difficile infection (CDI). Like vancomycin, the entire group Continue reading Quo Vadis, CDI Drugs?

The Cresemba Candidemia Gamble – Rien Ne Va Plus

Isavuconazole is a potent triazole; like Voriconazole, it has garnered an indication for invasive aspergillosis. However, it failed where other azole antifungals succeeded: in a pivotal trial, not yet published, the drug was inferior to Caspofungin in the treatment of Continue reading The Cresemba Candidemia Gamble – Rien Ne Va Plus