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Once weekly intraperitoneal therapy for gram-positive peritonitis

G D Morse1, D K Nairn, J J Walshe

  • 1Department of Medicine, State University of New York, Buffalo 14215.

Insights

A weekly intraperitoneal dose of vancomycin effectively treated peritonitis in dialysis patients, achieving therapeutic levels and a 100% cure rate for gram-positive infections. This regimen offers a promising alternative for managing peritonitis in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Pharmacology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Peritonitis is a common complication in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).
  • Effective antibiotic management is crucial for successful treatment and prevention of complications.
  • Vancomycin is a key antibiotic used for peritonitis, but optimal dosing in CAPD patients requires study.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the pharmacokinetics of a novel intraperitoneal (IP) vancomycin dosing regimen in CAPD patients.
  • To assess the clinical outcomes and efficacy of this vancomycin regimen in treating peritonitis.

Main Methods:

  • Ten CAPD patients with peritonitis received a 30 mg/kg/2 L IP dose of vancomycin once weekly for 3 weeks.
  • Serum vancomycin concentrations were monitored over time.
  • Pharmacokinetic parameters (absorption, clearance, volume of distribution, half-life) were calculated.
  • Clinical outcomes, including cure rates, were assessed.

Main Results:

  • Vancomycin demonstrated high absorption (91%) after the first dose, rapidly achieving therapeutic serum concentrations.
  • Mean peak serum concentration was 37 ± 8 mcg/mL at 6 hours.
  • Slow elimination was observed, with a mean serum half-life of 184 hours.
  • A mean serum concentration of 10 ± 4 mcg/mL was maintained at 168 hours.
  • 100% clinical cure rate was achieved in patients with uncomplicated gram-positive peritonitis.

Conclusions:

  • The studied weekly IP vancomycin dosing regimen is well-absorbed and achieves sustained therapeutic serum concentrations in CAPD patients.
  • This regimen resulted in a high cure rate for gram-positive peritonitis, suggesting its potential as an effective alternative treatment.
  • Further investigation into this dosing strategy is warranted for managing peritonitis in CAPD populations.

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