International journal of antimicrobial agents
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Int. J. Antimicrob. Agents · Jan 2005
ReviewEvaluation of colistin as an agent against multi-resistant Gram-negative bacteria.
Infections caused by multi-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are increasing worldwide. In patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), resistance in P. aeruginosa to numerous anti-pseudomonal agents is becoming common. The absence since 1995, of new substances active against resistant Gram-negative bacteria, has caused increasing concern. ⋯ Because its use as an anti-pseudomonal agent was displaced by the potentially less toxic aminoglycosides in 1970s, our knowledge of this drug is limited. However, there has been a significant recent increase in the data gathered on colistin, focussing on its chemistry, antibacterial activity, mechanism of action and resistance, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and new clinical application. It is likely that colistin will be an important antimicrobial option against multi-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, for some years to come.