Efficacy and safety of Dalbavancin in the treatment of infective Endocarditis caused by gram-positive cocci
Infective endocarditis is a severe infection of the heart valves or the inner lining of the heart, usually caused by bacteria. Treating it typically involves weeks of intravenous antibiotics given directly into a vein in hospital. This Phase 3 clinical trial tests whether a newer, long-acting antibiotic called dalbavancin works as well as or better than standard daily antibiotic regimens. Dalbavancin stays in the body much longer, which could mean fewer hospital days and simpler treatment for patients. Researchers will track participants for up to a year to monitor recovery, watch for complications such as the need for heart surgery or blood clots, and assess day-to-day quality of life. The study aims to find safer, more convenient ways to cure this challenging condition.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Infective endocarditis is a serious condition where bacteria settle on the inner lining of the heart or on the heart valves. Standard NHS treatment usually requires patients to stay in hospital for many weeks to receive continuous or daily antibiotic drips into a vein. While this standard care can cure the infection, prolonged hospital stays can be exhausting, disruptive to daily life, and carry risks such as line infections.
This clinical trial looks at an alternative antibiotic called dalbavancin. Dalbavancin stays active in the body for a much longer time than traditional medicines, meaning it can be given less often. Doctors hope this might allow patients to recover just as well without needing weeks of daily hospital infusions, potentially helping them return home sooner.
During the trial, doctors will compare how well patients do on dalbavancin compared to those receiving standard antibiotics. Over the course of a year, the team will monitor health outcomes, check for any complications, and measure how quickly people get back to their normal routines. The ultimate goal is to provide evidence that could lead to simpler, kinder, and equally effective treatment options.
Key takeaways
- Tests a long-acting antibiotic called dalbavancin for bacterial heart valve infections.
- Aims to see if treatment can be simpler while remaining just as safe and effective as standard drips.
- Open to adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with Gram-positive bacterial endocarditis.
- Follows participants for up to one year to monitor recovery and quality of life.
- Participation is entirely voluntary and does not change your right to standard NHS care.
Who may be eligible?
This trial is open to adults aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with infective endocarditis caused by specific common bacteria, known as Gram-positive bacteria (such as staphylococcus, streptococcus, or enterococcus).
Both men and women may take part. Because endocarditis is a complex illness, doctors will run detailed blood tests, heart scans, and health checks to ensure that joining the study is safe and medically appropriate for each person.
People who cannot take the study antibiotics due to severe allergies, or those who have specific medical complications that make the trial treatments unsuitable, may not be able to participate. Your hospital care team will review all eligibility criteria with you in detail.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am aged 18 or older.
- I have been diagnosed with infective endocarditis.
- My infection is caused by Gram-positive bacteria (such as staphylococcus or streptococcus).
- I am able to attend follow-up clinic visits over a 12-month period.
- I do not have known severe allergies to the study antibiotics.
What does participation involve?
If you take part, you will be placed into one of two groups: one receiving dalbavancin infusions or one receiving standard antibiotic therapy. The trial team will closely monitor your heart health, blood work, and response to treatment throughout your hospital stay.
After leaving hospital, you will have follow-up check-ups, including visits at 90 days and one year. These visits will involve physical examinations, blood tests, swabs, and simple questionnaires about your daily activities, pain, and quality of life.
Your total involvement in the study will last around one year, giving researchers a full picture of your recovery and long-term wellbeing.
Potential risks and benefits
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Common questions
What is infective endocarditis?
It is an infection of the inner lining of the heart or heart valves, usually caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream.
How is dalbavancin different from usual antibiotics?
Dalbavancin is long-acting. It stays in the body for weeks, meaning you might need fewer doses compared to daily antibiotic drips.
Will I still receive standard medical care?
Yes. Whether you receive dalbavancin or standard antibiotics, you will receive full medical attention and expert care for your heart condition.
Do I have to stay in hospital for the entire year?
No. The hospital stay is only for the acute treatment phase. Follow-up visits at 90 days and one year are outpatient appointments.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes. You can withdraw your consent at any time without giving a reason, and your medical team will continue to look after you.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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