International journal of antimicrobial agents
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Int. J. Antimicrob. Agents · Mar 2013
Continuous infusion of vancomycin in septic patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy.
Vancomycin is frequently administered as a continuous infusion to treat severe infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria. Previous studies have suggested a loading dose of 15 mg/kg followed by continuous infusion of 30 mg/kg in patients with normal renal function; however, there are no dosing recommendations in patients with renal failure undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Data from all adult septic patients admitted to a Department of Intensive Care over a 3-year period in whom vancomycin was given as a continuous infusion were reviewed. ⋯ On Day 1, 43 patients (51%) had adequate drug concentrations (20-30 μg/mL), 17 (20%) had levels >30 μg/mL and 25 (29%) had levels <20 μg/mL. Most patients with adequate drug concentrations received a daily dose of 16-35 mg/kg. The intensity of CRRT directly influenced vancomycin concentrations on Day 1 of therapy.