Brand Name: Synercid®
Active Ingredient: quinupristin/dalfopristin
Strength(s): 500 mg (150mg of quinupristin and 350mg of dalfopristin)
Dosage Form(s): Powder for injection
Company Name: Rhone-Poulenc Rorer
Availability: Prescription only
Date Approved by FDA: September 21, 1999

What is Synercid used for?

Synercid is used to treat adult patients with serious or life-threatening infections and certain skin infections caused by specific types of bacteria.

Synercid was approved based on its ability to clear bacteria from the bloodstream. At this time, it is not known if Synercid will cure the underlying infection. Clinical studies to determine Synercid’s ability to cure underlying infection are presently under way.

Special Warnings with Synercid:

• Synercid can interact with many medications. Review ALL medications that you are taking with your health care provider, including those that you take without a prescription.
• Tell your health care provider if you are taking cyclosporine, midazolam, or nifedipine.

General Precautions with Synercid:

• Tell your health care provider right away if you develop diarrhea while taking Synercid.
• Tell your health care provider if you are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
• Irritation of the vein can occur when Synercid is given. Therefore, it is recommended to flush the vein with 5% Dextrose in Water following completion of the infusion.
• Do not dilute Synercid with Saline solution.

How is Synercid given?

Synercid is given by IV in a hospital setting.

What are some possible side effects of Synercid? (This is NOT a complete list of side effects reported with Synercid. Your health care provider can discuss with you a more complete list of side effects.)  

• Pain, swelling, and irritation at the infusion site
• Muscle and joint pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Rash
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Itching