ORBACTIV: A Potent Antibiotic for Treating Acute Bacterial Skin and Skin Structure Infections Introduction Orbactiv (Oritavancin) is a potent antibiotic that belongs to the lipoglycopeptide class of antibiotics. It is prescribed to treat acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections caused by susceptible gram-positive pathogens, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). It was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2014 and is currently marketed by The Medicines Company. In this article, we will explore the uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options of Orbactiv. Uses Orbactiv is mainly used to treat acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) caused by susceptible gram-positive pathogens, including MRSA. These infections may include cellulitis, wound infections, and abscesses. Orbactiv can also be used to treat other infections, but its primary use is in the treatment of ABSSSI. Dosage Orbactiv is administered as a single-dose intravenous infusion. The recommended dose for adults is 1200 mg administered over 3 hours. No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with renal impairment. However, Orbactiv should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Demographic Orbactiv is approved for use in adults with ABSSSI caused by susceptible gram-positive pathogens, including MRSA. It is not approved for use in children or pregnant or breastfeeding women. Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to lipoglycopeptides or patients who have had an allergic reaction to Orbactiv should not use this medication. Side Effects The most common side effects of Orbactiv include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rash. These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. However, serious side effects may occur, including severe allergic reactions, liver toxicity, and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD). Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to lipoglycopeptides or patients who have had an allergic reaction to Orbactiv should avoid using this medication. Interactions Orbactiv may interact with some medications, including anticoagulants and medications that affect the liver's metabolism. Patients taking warfarin or other anticoagulants should be monitored closely for bleeding. Patients with hepatic impairment should be closely monitored when using Orbactiv, as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity. Generic Options Currently, there are no generic options available for Orbactiv. However, several other lipoglycopeptide antibiotics are available on the market, including vancomycin and telavancin. These medications may be used in place of Orbactiv, depending on the patient's medical history and individual circumstances. Conclusion Orbactiv is a potent antibiotic that is mainly used to treat acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections caused by susceptible gram-positive pathogens, including MRSA. Its unique single-dose intravenous infusion makes it an attractive option for many patients. Orbactiv's side effects are generally mild, but serious side effects may occur, including severe allergic reactions, liver toxicity, and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to lipoglycopeptides or patients who have had an allergic reaction to Orbactiv should avoid using this medication. Orbactiv is not approved for use in children or pregnant or breastfeeding women. Patients with hepatic impairment should be closely monitored when using Orbactiv, as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity. Patients should always consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best medication for their individual circumstances and medical history.