Suggested therapeutic alternatives in severe infections caused by
vancomycin-resistant enterococcal infections. (1) In rare cases of
β-lactamase-producing isolates, ampicillin-sulbactam
(12–24 g/day) is suggested. The use of a continuous infusion is
recommended by some experts. (2) Gentamicin or streptomycin. (3) Consider doses
of 8–12 mg/kg day. (4) Agents with potential activity include tigecycline
[62,63], doxycycline with rifampin or a fluoroquinolone (if susceptible
to each agent). (5) Doses to up to 30 g/day could be considered. (6)
Quinupristin-dalfopristin or linezolid are listed in the American Heart
Association recommendations for the treatment of vancomycin and
ampicillin-resistant Enterococcus faecium. Linezolid has been
used with success in a few cases of meningitis as a result of
vancomycin-resistant enterococci [61,74]. (7) if imipenem MIC
< 32 mg/L. HLR, high-level resistance; HD, high-dose.