Single-dose kinetics of intravenous vancomycin

Abstract

The pharmacokinetic properties of intravenously administered vancomycin were studied in four healthy volunteers. Reversible adverse effects (flushing, tachycardia, pruritus) occurred in two subjects who received high-dose rapid intravenous infusions. Distribution of vancomycin proceeded as a biphasic process in all four subjects. The initial distribution half-life (t1/2 alpha) was less than 8 minutes in all cases, with intermediate half-lives (t1/2 pi) varying from 0.43 to 1.48 hour and elimination half-lives (t1/2 beta) varying from 4.7 to 11.2 hours. Vancomycin clearance was less than creatinine clearance, probably because of serum protein binding, which was determined to be 55 per cent.