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