Daptomycin

ByBrian J. Werth, PharmD, University of Washington School of Pharmacy

Reviewed/Revised May 2024

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The antibiotic daptomycin is used to treat many serious bacterial infections, such as those caused by The antibiotic daptomycin is used to treat many serious bacterial infections, such as those caused bygram-positive bacteria, including those that are resistant to many other antibiotics.

Daptomycin works by interfering with the bacteria's cell membrane, which results in rapid death of the bacteria.

Table

Daptomycin

Common Uses

Some Potential Side Effects

Comments

Complicated skin infections, bloodstream infections, and certain heart valve infections (endocarditis) due to susceptible bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci

Increased number of white blood cells in the lungs (eosinophilic pneumonia)

Gastrointestinal upset

Muscle pain and weakness

Not used when infection involves the lungs because daptomycin is made inactive by surfactant (a substance normally produced in the lungs)Not used when infection involves the lungs because daptomycin is made inactive by surfactant (a substance normally produced in the lungs)

(See also Overview of Antibiotics.)

Use of Daptomycin During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Daptomycin should be used during pregnancy only when the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. (See also Daptomycin should be used during pregnancy only when the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. (See alsoSafety of Medications During Pregnancy.)

Whether daptomycin is safe to use during breastfeeding is unknown. (See also Medication and Substance Use During Breastfeeding.)

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