Fusidic acid in septicaemia and endocarditis

The in vitro activity of fusidic acid against Staphylococcus aureus is conf irmed in clinical studies which demonstrate that this antibiotic in combina tion with other agents, particularly beta-lactams, is efficacious in non-MR SA septicaemia. Some reports suggest that fusidic acid when used in combina tion, may significantly diminish the risk of relapse after cessation of the rapy. However, in spite of over 30 years of use and its recommendation in a number of guidelines, published evidence is insufficient to allow reliable comment on the efficacy of the antibiotic in the treatment of endocarditis . (C) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. and International Society of Chemotherapy. All rights reserved.