FDA Approves Dalbavancin to Treat Acute Bacterial Skin Infections

By Amy Orciari Herman

The FDA has approved dalbavancin (marketed as Dalvance) to treat adults with skin and skin structure infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

The intravenous drug is given in two doses, 1 week apart. In randomized trials, it was as effective as the antibiotic vancomycin. The most common side effects were nausea, headache, and diarrhea. Dalbavancin recipients were more likely than vancomycin recipients to have elevated liver enzymes.

Dalbavancin's label includes guidance on dosage adjustments for patients with renal impairment.