# Colistin (Polymyxin E)

> Last-resort lipopeptide antibiotic for multidrug-resistant Gram-negatives.

Source: https://peptides.cafe/peptide/colistin
Category: Polymyxin · Infectious Disease
Tag: FDA-Approved · Antibiotic

## Mechanism
Cationic cyclic lipopeptide that disrupts the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria by binding lipid A of LPS, causing membrane permeability and cell death.

## Research areas
- Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas

## Common research protocols
- IV: Loading dose + maintenance dosed in colistin base activity units; renal adjustment critical.

## Study summaries
- "Colistin in MDR Gram-negative infections" — Clinical Infectious Diseases (2005): Effective salvage therapy with manageable nephrotoxicity in modern dosing.

## Considerations
- FDA-approved.
- Nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity dose-limiting.

## Disclaimer
Educational content only. Not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Most research peptides are not FDA-approved for human therapeutic use. Consult a licensed clinician before any use.