Which drug is considered the treatment of choice for a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection?

Vancomycin is considered the treatment of choice for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections due to its effectiveness against this specific strain of bacteria. MRSA is a type of Staphylococcus aureus that has developed resistance to methicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics, which means traditional treatments like penicillin, ampicillin, and cephalothin are ineffective.

Vancomycin works by inhibiting cell wall synthesis in bacteria, which is crucial for their growth and reproduction. This mechanism renders it effective against MRSA, as the drug can penetrate the bacterial cell and disrupt its structural integrity. It is often used in serious infections caused by MRSA, particularly in cases of bloodstream infections, pneumonia, or skin and soft tissue infections, where immediate and potent intervention is required.

In summary, the efficacy of vancomycin against MRSA and its mechanism of action make it the preferred choice for treating these challenging infections.