What does polymyxin mean?
Polymyxin is a type of antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by gram-negative bacteria. It is often used when other antibiotics are ineffective and is typically reserved for severe or life-threatening infections. Polymyxin can be administered topically or systemically, depending on the type and severity of the infection. Due to its potential toxicity and the risk of developing resistance, polymyxin is often used as a last resort. Despite these risks, polymyxin remains a crucial treatment option for certain types of bacterial infections, and its use is carefully monitored by healthcare professionals.
nounA type of antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, particularly those caused by gram-negative bacteria.
- antibiotic
- bactericidal agent
"The doctor prescribed polymyxin to treat the patient's resistant bacterial infection."
"The polymyxin ointment was applied topically to the wound to prevent infection."
"The patient was given polymyxin intravenously to treat the systemic infection."
Used to refer to multiple types or instances of polymyxin.
"The hospital stocked several polymyxins to treat different types of bacterial infections."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of polymyxin
The word polymyxin originates from the Greek words 'poly' meaning many and 'myx' referring to mucus, and the suffix '-in' indicating a chemical or biological substance. Polymyxin was first discovered in the 1940s and has since been used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.
How polymyxin is actually used
Polymyxin is often used as a last resort due to its potential toxicity and the risk of developing resistance.