Abstract

Dalbavancin: re-enforcing the arsenal against Gram-positive bacteria causing skin and skin structure infections

Author(s): Konstantinos Z Vardakas & Matthew E Falagas

Dalbavancin is a new lipoglycopeptide awaiting approval for the treatment of patients with skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs). It has a long half-life that allows weekly administration and pharmacokinetic properties that do not require dose adjustment for any level of hepatic impairment. Lower doses are probably required for patients with creatinine clearance <30 ml/min. In Phase II and III randomized-controlled trials, dalbavancin was as effective as comparator antibiotics for the treatment of patients with SSSIs. In addition, it was associated with fewer total and serious adverse events. This review focuses on the randomized-controlled trials comparing dalbavancin with other antibiotics for the treatment of patients with SSSIs and discusses issues that need to be addressed in the future.