The Nephrotoxicity of Vancomycin
E J Filippone1,2, W K Kraft3, J L Farber4
1Department of Medicine, Sydney Kimmel College of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Abstract:
Vancomycin use is often associated with nephrotoxicity. It remains uncertain, however, to what extent vancomycin is directly responsible, as numerous potential risk factors for acute kidney injury frequently coexist. Herein, we critically examine available data in adult patients pertinent to this question. We review the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of vancomycin metabolism. Efficacy and safety data are discussed. The pathophysiology of vancomycin nephrotoxicity is considered. Risk factors for nephrotoxicity are enumerated, including the potential synergistic nephrotoxicity of vancomycin and piperacillin-tazobactam. Suggestions for clinical practice and future research are given.
Insights
Vancomycin can harm kidneys, but its direct role in acute kidney injury is unclear due to other risk factors. This review examines vancomycin
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Nephrology
- Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics
Background:
- Vancomycin is frequently linked to nephrotoxicity.
- The precise contribution of vancomycin to acute kidney injury (AKI) is debated due to coexisting risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the available data on vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity in adult patients.
- To review vancomycin pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy, safety, and the pathophysiology of kidney injury.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of adult patient data.
- Analysis of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties.
- Examination of efficacy, safety, and risk factor data.
Main Results:
- The direct nephrotoxic role of vancomycin remains uncertain.
- Coexisting risk factors and potential synergistic effects (e.g., with piperacillin-tazobactam) complicate assessment.
- Specific risk factors for vancomycin-associated nephrotoxicity are identified.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to clarify vancomycin's direct nephrotoxic potential.
- Clinical practice should consider identified risk factors and potential drug interactions.
- Strategies to mitigate vancomycin-related kidney injury require further investigation.
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