What combination of drugs is often used to treat infections caused by enterococci?

The combination of vancomycin or ampicillin with an aminoglycoside is commonly used to treat infections caused by enterococci due to their unique resistance patterns and virulence. Enterococci are known for their ability to develop resistance to many antibiotics, especially vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).

Using vancomycin or ampicillin provides a beta-lactam option, which is effective against enterococcal infections, and the addition of an aminoglycoside (such as gentamicin or streptomycin) can create a synergistic effect. This combination enhances bactericidal activity against enterococci, particularly in more severe infections like endocarditis or when treating high-level resistant strains.

In contrast, while other combinations might work against different pathogens, they do not target enterococci effectively. For instance, penicillin and tetracycline may lack the necessary efficacy against these resistant strains. Ciprofloxacin and metronidazole are more suitable for gram-negative infections and anaerobes, respectively, but do not adequately address enterococcal infections. Lastly, amoxicillin and clavulanic acid can treat a range of infections but do not specifically target enterococci in