Etomidate Inhibits the Growth of MRSA and Exhibits Synergism with Oxacillin

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the anesthetic etomidate against strains of MRSA and biofilms. <b>Materials & methods:</b> The antibacterial effect of etomidate was assessed by the broth microdilution method. To investigate the probable action mechanism of the compound flow cytometry techniques were used. <b>Results:</b> MRSA strains showed MIC equal to 500 and 1000 μg/ml of etomidate. Four-fifths (80%) of the tested MRSA strains demonstrated synergistic effect with oxacillin. Etomidate also showed activity against MRSA biofilm at concentration of 250 μg/ml. Cytometric analysis revealed that the cells treated with etomidate leading to cell death, probably by apoptosis. <b>Conclusion:</b> Etomidate showed antibacterial activity against MRSA.