vancomycin

Disclaimer to the Online Edition

This Manual has been designed for use in the NICU at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), London, Ontario, Canada, and represents clinical practice at this institution. The information contained within the Manual may not be applicable to other centres. If users of this Manual are not familiar with a drug, it is recommended that the official monograph be consulted before it is prescribed and administered. Any user of this information is advised that the contributors, Editor and LHSC are not responsible for any errors or omissions, and / or any consequences arising from the use of the information in this Manual.

Treatment of documented or suspected infections caused by methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (CoNS)

vancomycin

Indication

  • Dosage Guidelines
    • Treatment of documented or suspected infections caused by methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (CoNS)

Dosage Guidelines

Postnatal Age

Post Menstrual Age (Corrected Age)

Dose

0 to 28 days

Less than 30 weeks

10 mg/kg IV q12h

30 weeks or greater

10 mg/kg/dose IV q8h

Greater than 28 days

Less than 30 weeks

10 mg/kg/dose IV q8h

30 weeks to less than 40 weeks

15 mg/kg/dose IV q8h

40 weeks or greater

15 mg/kg/dose IV q6h

Administration

  • IV intermittent infusion over a minimum of 30 minutes
  • 1 g/200 mL (5 mg/mL) bag available in Pyxis machine for first doses. Withdraw required amount and discard remainder.

Adverse Effects

  • Ototoxicity, nephrotoxicity, thrombophlebitis, neutropenia, “red man” syndrome with rapid infusion

Comments

  • If treatment is planned for more than 48 hours, a trough (pre) level should be drawn 15 to 30 minutes prior to the 4th dose
  • If the patient is less than 26 weeks gestational age or has renal impairment a trough level may be drawn prior to the 3rd dose 
  • Peak (post) levels are not required
  • Concomitant administration with an aminoglycoside may increase risk of additive nephrotoxicity

Supplied As

  • 1g/200 mL (5 mg/mL) bag
  • 5 mg/mL patient specific syringe, prepared by Pharmacy