Selected Antimicrobial Information – Equine
Vancomycin [Equine]
Restriction Status
Protected
Dose
| Species | Usage | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Horses |
For susceptible, Gram-positive, systemic infections | 7.5mg/kg IV q8h, given over 30 min (extra-label use) |
| For regional limb perfusion | 300mg diluted into 60mL 0.9% saline and given as an IV or IO infusion over 30min (extra-label use) |
Brand Name(s)
Vancocin®
Background
Vancomycin is a bactericidal, concentration-dependent glycopeptide antibiotic with a narrow spectrum of activity against Gram-positive aerobes. Clostridium spp. are also susceptible. Many Staphylococcus spp. and Enterococcus spp. that are resistant to other antimicrobials will be susceptible to vancomycin; use should be strictly reserved for infections caused by organisms that are resistant to all other antimicrobial choices. Tissue distribution is poor, and vancomycin must be given IV since it is poorly bioavailable; when given PO, vancomycin tends to stay within the gastrointestinal tract. Vancomycin is excreted primarily in urine.
Acceptable Uses
- Treatment of multidrug resistant, Gram-positive infections causing life-threatening, systemic disease. Culture and susceptibility must be performed prior to use.
- Treatment of metronidazole-resistant Clostridium difficile enteritis, when given PO. Culture and susceptibility must be performed prior to use.
Unacceptable Uses
- Empiric use.
Formulations Available within the OSU Pharmacy
- Vancomycin 500mg/10ml injectable suspension
Notes
- Vancomycin use in animals is highly controversial and should only be considered as a last resort when all other antimicrobial treatment options have been ruled out.
- Vancomycin is on the protected antimicrobial list for the OSU-VMC, and approval must be obtained from the Antimicrobial Stewardship Working Group prior to prescribing.
