Vancomycin Flashcards
Generic Name for Vancocin
Vancomycin
Trade Name for Vancomycin
Vancocin
Classification for Vancomycin
Antibiotic
MOA (pharmacodynamics) for Vancomycin
Binds to bacterial cell membranes, inhibits wall synthesis; bactericidal
Indications for Vancomycin Admin
Treatment of susceptible infections due to gram-positive aerobic bacteria like staphylococcus. It treats complicated skin infections, bloodstream infections, endocarditis, bone/joint infections and meningitis. Often used to treat MRSA.
Dosages for Vancomycin Admin
Adult: 25-30mg/kg IV/IO ideal body weight.
- doses 1g or less; Infuse over 60 minutes
- doses 1g to 1.5g; Infuse over 90 minutes
- doses over 1.5g; Infuse over 120 minutes
Pediatric: 15mg/kg to a max of 1000mg IV/IO, infuse over 60 minutes
Contraindications for Vancomycin Admin
- Hypersensitivity
- Hemolytic anemia
- c.difficile associated diseases
- Do not administer with calcium containing IV solutions such as ringers lactate.
Precautions in using Vancomycin
- Rapid injection may cause Red Man syndrome (anaphylactoid reaction causing hives, swelling, rash to face, hands, neck and upper torso).
- Slowing the infusion rate and increasing dilution volume may prevent or minimize this reaction
- Administering an antihistamine prior to the infusion may reduce symptoms
Notable Notes to Note regarding Vancomycin
- Abdominal cramping, severe watery diarrhea, and fever may result from an altered bacterial balance.
- Use caution in patients with impaired renal function and patients with previous hearing problems.