meropenem + colistin

Meropenem + colistin is a combination of two antibiotics used primarily for the treatment of severe infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, especially carbapenem-resistant *Acinetobacter baumannii* (CRAB). Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell death. Colistin (polymyxin E) is a polypeptide antibiotic that disrupts the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria by binding to lipopolysaccharides and phospholipids in the outer cell membrane, resulting in increased permeability and cell lysis. The combination exhibits synergistic effects; colistin increases membrane permeability allowing better access for meropenem to its target sites. This synergy can improve clinical outcomes and may help prevent resistance development. The combination is typically reserved for critically ill patients with limited treatment options due to resistance patterns[1][2][6].

Other names

colistin-meropenem combination therapy