Vancomycin therapy in severe staphylococcal infections.

Vancomycin was developed in the 1950s, when available therapy for severe staphylococcal infections was unsatisfactory. Early clinical experiences with vancomycin indicated a cure rate of 70%. The introduction of beta-lactamase-resistant penicillins and cephalosporins, which have a lower potential for toxicity, resulted in limited use of vancomycin. The current renewal of interest in vancomycin for treatment of severe staphylococcal infections stems primarily from the efficacy of this drug against methicillin-resistant pathogens and its utility in a number of unique clinical situations. In addition, the development of more purified preparations of vancomycin has lowered the frequency of adverse side effects.