Colistin is a type of antibiotic that has been in use for over 50 years. It is considered a last resort antibiotic because it is used to treat infections caused by bacteria that are resistant to other types of antibiotics. The reason for its use as a last resort antibiotic is due to the fact that it can have serious side effects and can also lead to the development of resistance.
What is Colistin?
Colistin is a type of antibiotic that was first discovered in 1949. It is derived from the bacterium Bacillus polymyxa and belongs to the class of antibiotics called polymyxins. Colistin works by disrupting the outer membrane of bacterial cells, causing them to leak and eventually die.
When Is Colistin Used?
Colistin is only used when other antibiotics have failed or are not effective against certain types of bacteria. This makes it a last resort option for treating infections caused by bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
Why Is Colistin a Last Resort Antibiotic?
The main reason why colistin is considered a last resort antibiotic is due to its potential side effects. These include kidney damage, nerve damage, and muscle weakness. Additionally, colistin can also lead to the development of resistance in bacteria.
Potential Side Effects
One of the most serious side effects associated with colistin use is kidney damage. This can occur due to the fact that colistin can accumulate in the kidneys and cause inflammation and damage over time. Other potential side effects include nerve damage and muscle weakness.
Development of Resistance
Another reason why colistin should be used sparingly is because it can lead to the development of resistance in bacteria. This is due to the fact that colistin works by disrupting the outer membrane of bacterial cells, and bacteria can develop mechanisms to protect themselves against this.
Conclusion
In conclusion, colistin is a last resort antibiotic that is only used when other antibiotics have failed or are not effective. Its use is limited due to its potential side effects and the risk of developing resistance in bacteria. As such, it is important to use colistin sparingly and only when absolutely necessary.
8 Related Question Answers Found
Medicaid, a federally funded program, is designed to provide healthcare coverage to low-income individuals and families. However, the program is considered the payer of last resort. What does this mean and why is it important?
Immunotherapy has been gaining popularity in the medical world as a potential cure for cancer. However, many people still wonder whether it should be considered a last resort. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of immunotherapy and try to answer this question.
Immunotherapy has been gaining popularity as a treatment option for cancer patients. But is it really a last resort treatment? Let’s examine the facts.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), also known as shock therapy, is a medical procedure that involves the use of electrical currents to stimulate the brain. ECT is often viewed as a last resort treatment option for individuals with severe mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. In this article, we will explore the reasons why ECT is considered a last resort treatment option.
Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s a disease that can be difficult to treat, especially in its advanced stages. One treatment option that has gained a lot of attention in recent years is Immunotherapy.
Vancomycin is a powerful antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections. It is considered a “last resort” medication, which means it is typically only used when other antibiotics have failed to work or when the infection is caused by bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics. What Is Vancomycin?
Vancomycin is a potent antibiotic drug that has been around for more than 60 years. This drug is known as the “drug of last resort” because it is typically used to treat infections that are resistant to other antibiotics. In this article, we will explore why Vancomycin is considered the last resort drug and how it works.
ECT Therapy, also known as Electroconvulsive Therapy, is a medical treatment used primarily to treat severe mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. It involves passing a small electric current through the brain to induce a seizure. While it has been proven effective in treating certain conditions, there is still much debate over whether or not it should be considered a last resort treatment option.
