Vancomycin vs TMP/SMX for MRSA – Not the Final Word

Vancomycin got a bad reputation since the early 90ies when it became clear that it was slow to provide clinical improvement and microbiologic cure in MRSA patients.  It was associated with prolonged bacteremia even when combined with rifampin [1].  And for MSSA, anti-staph penicillins like nafcillin were always the better choice. Then, Continue reading Vancomycin vs TMP/SMX for MRSA – Not the Final Word

Cattle and Pigs and Chickens, Oh Yeah!

When the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) Final Rule was announced earlier this month by FDA, the accompanying press release called it a ‘major step towards judicious antibiotic use’ in veterinary medicine [1]. There are several elements which look good, at least on paper: As prescribers of any and all antibiotics it Continue reading Cattle and Pigs and Chickens, Oh Yeah!

Treating GC in the Face of Dwindling Antibiotic Options – (1)

Looking across the Northern border it is clear that CDC Guidelines are not universally followed even in North America. Public Health Canada still recommends cefixime for uncomplicated gonorrhea (GC), albeit at the high single oral dose of 800 mg [1]. In the US, CDC has opted for combination treatment with ceftriaxone Continue reading Treating GC in the Face of Dwindling Antibiotic Options – (1)