Development of Escherichia coli rifaximin-resistant mutants: frequency of selection and stability

Abstract

Rifaximin has a low level of resistance selection, although it may select stable highly resistant mutants in a single step. Periodical surveillance of the levels of rifaximin resistance is required to detect the possible appearance of rifaximin-resistant clinical isolates. Further studies to characterize in-depth the mechanisms of stable resistance to rifaximin are necessary.