Vancomycin Flashcards
(9 cards)
What is the therapeutic range for Vancomycin trough levels?
10 to 15 mg/L (15 to 20 mg/L for endocarditis or less sensitive strains of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or complicated infections caused by S. aureus)
Loading doses may be required.
What major route of elimination is associated with Vancomycin?
Renal; 70 to 90% excreted unchanged in urine
Important for monitoring renal function.
List the monitoring parameters for Vancomycin.
- Serum potassium
- Full blood count
- Renal function
- Auditory function in elderly
- Urinalysis
Essential for early detection of side effects.
What are the warning signs associated with Vancomycin use?
- Hearing loss
- Vertigo
- Dizziness
- Tinnitus
- Flushing of the upper body (‘Red Man Syndrome’)
- Blood disorders (e.g., neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
- Phlebitis
- Nephrotoxicity (e.g., elevated serum creatinine concentrations)
- Skin disorders (e.g., rashes, toxic epidermal necrolysis, pruritus)
Patients must be aware of these signs for timely reporting.
True or False: Hypotension and anaphylactic reactions can occur if Vancomycin is administered too quickly.
True
Caution is advised during administration.
What actions are required if warning signs occur during Vancomycin treatment?
Advise patient to report immediately to a doctor
Early intervention can prevent severe complications.
What interactions increase the risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity with Vancomycin?
- Ciclosporin
- Aminoglycosides
- Polymixin antifungals
Monitoring is critical when these drugs are co-administered.
Which diuretics increase the risk of ototoxicity when taken with Vancomycin?
Loop diuretics
Caution is advised when prescribing these medications together.
What effect does Vancomycin have on suxamethonium?
Enhances its effects
Important for anesthetic considerations.
