Vancomycin-Associated Nephrotoxicity in the Critically Ill: A Retrospective Multivariate Regression Analysis*

Evaluation of Continuous Infusion Vancomycin in a Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Population

BACKGROUND

Continuous infusion vancomycin (CIV) may benefit children who are unable to achieve therapeutic concentrations with intermittent vancomycin dosing and may facilitate outpatient administration by alleviating the burden of frequent dosing intervals. Previous studies have used variable dosing regimens and steady-state concentration goals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the total daily dose (TDD) of CIV required to achieve therapeutic steady-state concentrations of 15-25 µg/mL in pediatric hematology/oncology patients.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective study was performed for patients treated with CIV from January 2017 to June 2019. The primary outcome was the TDD required to achieve therapeutic steady-state concentrations on CIV. Secondary outcomes included time to reach therapeutic steady-state concentrations, CIV indications and adverse events associated with CIV.

RESULTS

Data were collected for 71 courses of CIV in 60 patients. Median patient age was 4 years (range: 0.4-20 years). The median TDD required to achieve initial therapeutic concentrations was 50.3 mg/kg/d (interquartile range: 38.8-59.2) and was further divided into age-based cohorts. TDD in mg/kg was significantly lower in the older cohort ( P < 0.001), but there was no statistically significant difference between age-based cohorts with TDD in mg/m 2 ( P = 0.97). Median time to achieve first therapeutic concentration was 19.3 hours (range: 8.6-72.3 hours). The most common indication for CIV was ease of outpatient administration (69.0%). Acute kidney injury incidence was minimal (4.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

CIV is associated with rapid attainment of target concentrations in pediatric hematology/oncology patients and is safe and well tolerated.

Is It Still Beneficial to Monitor the Trough Concentration of Vancomycin? A Quantitative Meta-Analysis of Nephrotoxicity and Efficacy

This study conducted a quantitative meta-analysis to investigate the association of vancomycin indicators, particularly area under the curve over 24 h (AUC24) and trough concentrations (Ctrough), and their relationship with both nephrotoxicity and efficacy. Literature research was performed in PubMed and Web of Science on vancomycin nephrotoxicity and efficacy in adult inpatients. Vancomycin Ctrough, AUC24, AUC24/minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), nephrotoxicity evaluation and treatment outcomes were extracted. Logistic regression and Emax models were conducted, stratified by evaluation criterion for nephrotoxicity and primary outcomes for efficacy. Among 100 publications on nephrotoxicity, 29 focused on AUC24 and 97 on Ctrough, while of 74 publications on efficacy, 27 reported AUC24/MIC and 68 reported Ctrough. The logistic regression analysis indicated a significant association between nephrotoxicity and vancomycin Ctrough (odds ratio = 2.193; 95% CI 1.582-3.442, p < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic curve had an area of 0.90, with a cut-off point of 14.55 mg/L. Additionally, 92.3% of the groups with a mean AUC24 within 400-600 mg·h/L showed a mean Ctrough of 10-20 mg/L. However, a subtle, non-statistically significant association was observed between the AUC24 and nephrotoxicity, as well as between AUC24/MIC and Ctrough concerning treatment outcomes. Our findings suggest that monitoring vancomycin Ctrough remains a beneficial and valuable approach to proactively identifying patients at risk of nephrotoxicity, particularly when Ctrough exceeds 15 mg/L. Ctrough can serve as a surrogate for AUC24 to some extent. However, no definitive cut-off values were identified for AUC24 concerning nephrotoxicity or for Ctrough and AUC24/MIC regarding efficacy.

Serum concentration of continuously administered vancomycin influences efficacy and safety in critically ill adults: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Vancomycin is used to treat Gram-positive infections in critically ill adults. For vancomycin administered by continuous infusion (CI), various target ranges have been used, ranging from 15-20 mg/L to 30-40 mg/L. This systematic literature review was conducted to investigate the impact of steady-state serum concentration (Css) of CI on safety and efficacy of therapy in critically ill adults.

METHODS

Relevant literature was identified by searching two electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library) and Google Scholar from inception until July 2023, focusing on studies reporting measured Css and treatment outcomes (e.g. mortality, nephrotoxicity) with CI. Due to study heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis of the evidence was performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-one publications were included with a total of 2949 patients. Mortality was higher (two studies, n = 388 patients) and clinical cure was lower (one study, n = 40 patients) with Css < 15 mg/L measured 24 h after initiation of CI (C24). An adequate loading dose appeared most important for maintaining higher C24. Generally, higher Css was associated with higher rates of acute kidney injury (AKI) (15 studies, n = 2331 patients). It was calculated that Css < 25 mg/L (versus ≥25 mg/L) was preferable for reducing nephrotoxicity (three studies, n = 515 patients).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite sparse data availability, the target range of 15-25 mg/L in CI may increase clinical cure and reduce mortality and AKI. In future research, vancomycin Css cohorts should be formed to allow evaluation of the impact of Css of CI on treatment outcomes.

Efficacy of therapeutic drug monitoring-based antibiotic regimen in critically ill patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM)-based antimicrobial dosing optimization strategies on pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics and specific drug properties for critically ill patients is unclear. Here, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effectiveness of TDM-based regimen in these patients.

METHODS

Articles from three databases were systematically retrieved to identify relevant randomized control studies. Version two of the Cochrane tool for assessing risk of bias in randomized trials was used to assess the risk of bias in studies included in the analysis, and quality assessment of evidence was graded using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Primary outcome was the 28-day mortality and secondary outcome were in-hospital mortality, clinical cure, length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) and target attainment at day 1 and 3.

RESULTS

In total, 5 studies involving 1011 patients were included for meta-analysis of the primary outcome, of which no significant difference was observed between TDM-based regimen and control groups (risk ratio [RR] 0.94, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.77-1.14; I2 = 0%). In-hospital mortality (RR 0.96, 95% CI: 0.76-1.20), clinical cure (RR 1.23, 95% CI: 0.91-1.67), length of stay in the ICU (mean difference 0, 95% CI: - 2.18-2.19), and target attainment at day 1 (RR 1.14, 95% CI: 0.88-1.48) and day 3 (RR 1.35, 95% CI: 0.90-2.03) were not significantly different between the two groups, and all evidence for the secondary outcomes had a low or very low level of certainty because the included studies had serious risk of bias, variation of definition for outcomes, and small sample sizes.

CONCLUSION

TDM-based regimens had no significant efficacy for clinical or pharmacological outcomes. Further studies with other achievable targets and well-defined outcomes are required.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical trial registration; PROSPERO ( https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ ), registry number: CRD 42022371959. Registered 24 November 2022.

Use of nares swab to de-escalate vancomycin for patients with suspected methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Introduction

According to the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 30%-50% of antibiotic use in hospitals is unnecessary or inappropriate. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic further complicates antibiotic use leading to greater initiation of empiric antibiotics. The result is antibiotic overuse and increased duration of unnecessary therapy. Vancomycin is a drug of last resort, primarily relegated to the treatment of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). De-escalating vancomycin can mean waiting on MRSA culture results, which may take up to 96 h. Nares screening for MRSA is shown to possess high negative predictive value for ruling out suspected MRSA pneumonia, intra-abdominal infections, and bacteremia.

Methods

This before-and-after study examines the impact of vancomycin therapy de-escalation due to absence of MRSA colonization detected via PCR assay of nares swabs. An intervention with providers using SMART goals was designed to increase nasal swabbing for MRSA and ultimately decrease vancomycin use at a large, tertiary-care urban hospital.

Results

There was a significant increase in use of vancomycin nares swabs (28/150 vs 48/100, p = 0.040) in the immediate pre/postintervention period, and significant decreases in vancomycin usage days/1,000 patient days of 2.34% per month (p = 0.039) over a two year period after the intervention.

Conclusion

An intervention using PCR nares swabs to detect MRSA led to significant, lasting decreases in vancomycin usage at this hospital. Similar interventions should be planned at hospitals experiencing overuse of this antibiotic.

Discrepancy between perceptions and acceptance of clinical decision support Systems: implementation of artificial intelligence for vancomycin dosing

BACKGROUND

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are more effective if accepted by clinicians. We developed an AI-based clinical decision support system (CDSS) to facilitate vancomycin dosing. This qualitative study assesses clinicians' perceptions regarding CDSS implementation.

METHODS

Thirteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with critical care pharmacists, at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN), from March through April 2020. Eight clinical cases were discussed with each pharmacist (N = 104). Following initial responses, we revealed the CDSS recommendations to assess participants' reactions and feedback. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and summarized.

RESULTS

The participants reported considerable time and effort invested daily in individualizing vancomycin therapy for hospitalized patients. Most pharmacists agreed that such a CDSS could favorably affect (N = 8, 62%) or enhance (9, 69%) their ability to make vancomycin dosing decisions. In case-based evaluations, pharmacists' empiric doses differed from the CDSS recommendation in most cases (88/104, 85%). Following revealing the CDSS recommendations, we noted 78% (69/88) discrepant doses. In discrepant cases, pharmacists indicated they would not alter their recommendations. The reasons for declining the CDSS recommendation were general distrust of CDSS, lack of dynamic evaluation and in-depth analysis, inability to integrate all clinical data, and lack of a risk index.

CONCLUSION

While pharmacists acknowledged enthusiasm about the advantages of AI-based models to improve drug dosing, they were reluctant to integrate the tool into clinical practice. Additional research is necessary to determine the optimal approach to implementing CDSS at the point of care acceptable to clinicians and effective at improving patient outcomes.

Quality indicators in intensive care medicine for Germany - fourth edition 2022

The measurement of quality indicators supports quality improvement initiatives. The German Interdisciplinary Society of Intensive Care Medicine (DIVI) has published quality indicators for intensive care medicine for the fourth time now. After a scheduled evaluation after three years, changes in several indicators were made. Other indicators were not changed or only minimally. The focus remained strongly on relevant treatment processes like management of analgesia and sedation, mechanical ventilation and weaning, and infections in the ICU. Another focus was communication inside the ICU. The number of 10 indicators remained the same. The development method was more structured and transparency was increased by adding new features like evidence levels or author contribution and potential conflicts of interest. These quality indicators should be used in the peer review in intensive care, a method endorsed by the DIVI. Other forms of measurement and evaluation are also reasonable, for example in quality management. This fourth edition of the quality indicators will be updated in the future to reflect the recently published recommendations on the structure of intensive care units by the DIVI.

Plasma and Cerebrospinal Fluid Population Pharmacokinetics of Vancomycin in Patients with External Ventricular Drain

Vancomycin is a commonly used antibacterial agent in patients with primary central nervous system (CNS) infection. This study aims to examine predictors of vancomycin penetration into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in patients with external ventricular drainage and the feasibility of CSF sampling from the distal drainage port for therapeutic drug monitoring. Fourteen adult patients (9 with primary CNS infection) were treated with vancomycin intravenously. The vancomycin concentrations in blood and CSF (from proximal [CSF_P] and distal [CSF_D] drainage ports) were evaluated by population pharmacokinetics. Model-based simulations were conducted to compare various infusion modes. A three-compartment model with first-order elimination best described the vancomycin data. Estimated parameters included clearance (CL, 4.53 L/h), central compartment volume (Vc, 24.0 L), apparent CSF compartment volume (VCSF, 0.445 L), and clearance between central and CSF compartments (QCSF, 0.00322 L/h and 0.00135 L/h for patients with and without primary CNS infection, respectively). Creatinine clearance was a significant covariate on vancomycin CL. CSF protein was the primary covariate to explain the variability of QCSF. There was no detectable difference between the data for sampling from the proximal and the distal port. Intermittent infusion and continuous infusion with a loading dose reached the CSF target concentration faster than continuous infusion only. All infusion schedules reached similar CSF trough concentrations. Beyond adjusting doses according to renal function, starting treatment with a loading dose in patients with primary CSF infection is recommended. Occasionally, very high and possibly toxic doses would be required to achieve adequate CSF concentrations, which calls for more investigation of direct intraventricular administration of vancomycin. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under registration no. NCT04426383).

The influence of vancomycin on renal functions, the predictors and associated factors for nephrotoxicity

BACKGROUND

Vancomycin has been widely used in the last six decades to treat methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and other resistant gram-positive infections. The risk of vancomycin toxicity increases with the utilization of higher doses while treating the resistant form of bacterial infections. Nephrotoxicity is one of the major complications reported to be a hinderance in the prognosis of vancomycin therapy.

OBJECTIVES

This hospital-based study aimed to highlight the influence of vancomycin on renal function with special emphasis on identifying the predictors and augmenting factors for nephrotoxicity.

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional, unicentric, hospital-based study was conducted at King Fahad Specialist Hospital (KFSH) in Qassim region in Saudi Arabia (KSA). It included 319 hospitalized patients who received vancomycin at intermittent doses (15 to 30 mg/kg IV per day) based on the diseased state. Data regarding vancomycin dose, frequency, duration and data of renal function tests and type of admission were analysed to evaluate their influence on the renal function using parameters such as blood urea, serum creatinine levels and creatinine clearance. One-way ANOVA and Spearman correlation test were used in the analysis of data.

RESULTS

Both male and female patients treated with vancomycin had significantly (p<0.05) elevated blood urea and serum creatinine levels compared to baseline levels while creatinine clearance was non-significantly varied. Increasing age, increasing body weight, higher vancomycin dose and trough levels, increased vancomycin frequency and duration, critically ill patients and site of infection were factors associated with significant (p<0.05) increases in blood urea and serum creatinine levels with reduction in creatinine clearance.

CONCLUSION

Data suggested that vancomycin treatment reduced the renal function in patients and indicated its association with several predictors and confounding factors. The findings of the study might assist in identifying the patients under risk from the vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity and in designing the preventive strategies to reduce such complications.

Right dose, right now: bedside, real-time, data-driven, and personalised antibiotic dosing in critically ill patients with sepsis or septic shock—a two-centre randomised clinical trial

Background

Adequate antibiotic dosing may improve outcomes in critically ill patients but is challenging due to altered and variable pharmacokinetics. To address this challenge, AutoKinetics was developed, a decision support system for bedside, real-time, data-driven and personalised antibiotic dosing. This study evaluates the feasibility, safety and efficacy of its clinical implementation.

Methods

In this two-centre randomised clinical trial, critically ill patients with sepsis or septic shock were randomised to AutoKinetics dosing or standard dosing for four antibiotics: vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, meropenem, and ceftriaxone. Adult patients with a confirmed or suspected infection and either lactate > 2 mmol/L or vasopressor requirement were eligible for inclusion. The primary outcome was pharmacokinetic target attainment in the first 24 h after randomisation. Clinical endpoints included mortality, ICU length of stay and incidence of acute kidney injury.

Results

After inclusion of 252 patients, the study was stopped early due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the ciprofloxacin intervention group, the primary outcome was obtained in 69% compared to 3% in the control group (OR 62.5, CI 11.4–1173.78, p < 0.001). Furthermore, target attainment was faster (26 h, CI 18–42 h, p < 0.001) and better (65% increase, CI 49–84%, p < 0.001). For the other antibiotics, AutoKinetics dosing did not improve target attainment. Clinical endpoints were not significantly different. Importantly, higher dosing did not lead to increased mortality or renal failure.

Conclusions

In critically ill patients, personalised dosing was feasible, safe and significantly improved target attainment for ciprofloxacin.

Trial registration: The trial was prospectively registered at Netherlands Trial Register (NTR), NL6501/NTR6689 on 25 August 2017 and at the European Clinical Trials Database (EudraCT), 2017-002478-37 on 6 November 2017.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13054-022-04098-7.

Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Target Attainment of Vancomycin, at Three Reported Infusion Modes, for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Bloodstream Infections in Critically Ill Patients: Focus on Novel Infusion Mode

Objective

The study aimed to evaluate and compare the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) exposure to vancomycin in the novel optimal two-step infusion (OTSI) vs. intermittent infusion (II) vs. continuous infusion (CI) mode, for MRSA bloodstream infections occurring in critical patients.

Methods

With PK/PD modeling and Monte Carlo simulations, the PK/PD exposure of 15 OTSI, 13 II, and 6 CI regimens for vancomycin, at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 g daily dose, was evaluated. Using the Monte Carlo simulations, the vancomycin population PK parameters derived from critical patients, the PD parameter for MRSA isolates [i.e., minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)], and the dosing parameters of these regimens were integrated into a robust mdel of vancomycin PK/PD index, defined as a ratio of the daily area under the curve (AUC0–24) to MIC (i.e., AUC0–24/MIC), to estimate the probability of target attainment (PTA) of these regimens against MRSA isolates with an MIC of 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 mg/L in patients with varying renal function. The PTA at an AUC0–24/MIC ratio of &gt;400, 400–600, and &gt;600 was estimated. A regimen with a PTA of ≥90% at an AUC0–24/MIC ratio of 400–600, which is supposed to maximize both efficacy and safety, was considered optimal.

Results

At the same daily dose, almost only the OTSI regimens showed a PTA of ≥90% at an AUC0–24/MIC ratio of 400–600, and this profile seems evident especially in patients with creatinine clearance (CLcr) of ≥60 ml/min and for isolates with an MIC of ≤2 mg/L. However, for patients with CLcr of &lt;60 ml/min and for isolates with an MIC of ≥4 mg/L, the II regimens often displayed a higher or even ≥90% PTA at an AUC0–24/MIC ratio of &gt;400 and of &gt;600. The CI regimens frequently afforded a reduced PTA at an AUC0–24/MIC ratio of &gt;400 and of &gt;600, regardless of CLcr and MIC.

Conclusions

The data indicated that the OTSI regimens allowed preferred PK/PD exposure in terms of both efficacy and safety, and thus should be focused more on, especially in patients with CLcr of ≥60 ml/min and for isolates with an MIC of ≤2 mg/L.

When There Is No Trough: Use and Outcomes of Continuous-Infusion Vancomycin at a Free-Standing Children's Hospital

OBJECTIVE

There is minimal published literature regarding the use of continuous-infusion vancomycin (CIV) in children. The objective of this study was to describe the use, dosing requirements, and outcomes of CIV at a free-standing children's hospital.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of patients who received CIV while admitted to Nationwide Children's Hospital between July 1, 2010, and June 30, 2020. The total daily dose (TDD) of vancomycin required to attain a target serum vancomycin concentration (SVC) was compared between CIV and intermittent-infusion vancomycin (IIV) administration regimens. Safety outcomes and treatment failure were also explored.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients (77% male) with a median age of 7 years (IQR = 1, 10 years) were included. Most patients (71%) were started on CIV in anticipation of outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy. The median TDD required to achieve a target SVC was higher with IIV compared with CIV (82.4 mg/kg/day vs 50.5 mg/kg/day; p = 0.02). Despite higher TDD with IIV, median SVC with IIV was similar to SVC with CIV (16.6 mg/L vs 17.6 mg/L; p = 2.00). There were no safety concerns or therapeutic failures identified with CIV.

CONCLUSIONS

Continuous-infusion vancomycin was a well-tolerated and effective alternative to IIV for the patients included in this study. The TDD of vancomycin required to achieve a target SVC was lower in patients receiving CIV compared with those receiving IIV.

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Antibiotics: Defining the Therapeutic Range

PURPOSE

In the present narrative review, the authors aimed to discuss the relationship between the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) of antibiotics and clinical response (including efficacy and toxicity). In addition, this review describes how this relationship can be applied to define the therapeutic range of a particular antibiotic (or antibiotic class) for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM).

METHODS

Relevant clinical studies that examined the relationship between PK/PD of antibiotics and clinical response (efficacy and response) were reviewed. The review (performed for studies published in English up to September 2021) assessed only commonly used antibiotics (or antibiotic classes), including aminoglycosides, beta-lactam antibiotics, daptomycin, fluoroquinolones, glycopeptides (teicoplanin and vancomycin), and linezolid. The best currently available evidence was used to define the therapeutic range for these antibiotics.

RESULTS

The therapeutic range associated with maximal clinical efficacy and minimal toxicity is available for commonly used antibiotics, and these values can be implemented when TDM for antibiotics is performed. Additional data are needed to clarify the relationship between PK/PD indices and the development of antibiotic resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

TDM should only be regarded as a means to achieve the main goal of providing safe and effective antibiotic therapy for all patients. The next critical step is to define exposures that can prevent the development of antibiotic resistance and include these exposures as therapeutic drug monitoring targets.

Efficacy of Vancomycin and Meropenem in Central Nervous System Infections in Children and Adults: Current Update

The current antimicrobial therapy of bacterial infections of the central nervous system (CNS) in adults and pediatric patients is faced with many pitfalls as the drugs have to reach necessary levels in serum and cross the blood-brain barrier. Furthermore, several studies report that different factors such as the structure of the antimicrobial agent, the severity of disease, or the degree of inflammation play a significant role. Despite the available attempts to establish pharmacokinetic (PK) modeling to improve the required dosing regimen for adults and pediatric patients, conclusive recommendations for the best therapeutic strategies are still lacking. For instance, bacterial meningitis, the most common CNS infections, and ventriculitis, a severe complication of meningitis, are still associated with 10% and 30% mortality, respectively. Several studies report on the use of vancomycin and meropenem to manage meningitis and ventriculitis; therefore, this review aims to shed light on the current knowledge about their use in adults and pediatric patients. Consequently, studies published from 2015 until mid-July 2021 are included, and data about the study population, levels of drugs in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and measured PK data in serum and CSF are provided. The overall aim is to provide the readers a recent reference that summarizes the pitfalls and success of the current therapy and emphasizes the importance of performing more studies to improve the clinical outcome of the current therapeutical approach.

The impact of early target attainment of vancomycin in critically ill patients with confirmed Gram-positive infection: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Vancomycin is a commonly used antibiotic in critically ill patients for various indications. Critical illness imposes pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamics challenges, which makes optimizing vancomycin in this population cumbersome. Data are scarce on the clinical impact of time to therapeutic trough levels of vancomycin in critically ill patients.  This study aims to evaluate the timing to achieve therapeutic trough level of vancomycin on 30-day mortality in critically ill patients.

METHOD

A retrospective cohort study was conducted for all adult critically ill patients with confirmed Gram-positive infection who received IV vancomycin between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2020. We compared early (< 48 h) versus late (≥ 48 h) attainment of vancomycin therapeutic trough levels. The primary outcome was the 30-day mortality in critically ill patients. Secondary outcomes were the development of resistant organisms, microorganisms eradication within 4-5 days of vancomycin initiation, acute kidney injury (AKI), and length of stay (LOS). Propensity score-matched (1:1 ratio) used based on patient's age, serum creatinine, and albumin values at baseline.

RESULTS

A total of 326 patients were included; 110 patients attained the therapeutic trough levels within 48 h of vancomycin initiation. Late achievement of the therapeutic trough levels was associated with higher 30-day mortality (HR: 2.54; 95% CI [1.24-5.22]; p = 0.01). Additionally, patients who achieved therapeutic trough levels of vancomycin late were more likely to develop AKI (OR = 2.59; 95% CI [1.01-6.65]; p = 0.04). Other outcomes were not statistically significant between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Early achievement of vancomycin therapeutic levels in patients with confirmed Gram-positive infection was associated with possible survival benefits.

The Role of Urinary Biomarkers as Diagnostic and Prognostic Predictors of Acute Kidney Injury Associated With Vancomycin

Introduction: The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) related to vancomycin is variable, and several risk factors related to the treatment and patients may explain the nephrotoxicity. The role of urinary biomarkers in AKI related to vancomycin is unknown.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of urinary IL-18, KIM-1, NGAL, TIMP-2, and IGFBP7 as diagnostic and prognostic predictors of AKI related to vancomycin.

Methods: A prospective cohort study of patients receiving vancomycin and admitted to wards of a public university hospital from July 2019 to May 2020 was performed. We excluded patients that had AKI before starting vancomycin, hemodynamic instability, inability to collect urine, and chronic kidney disease stage 5.

Results: Ninety-four patients were included, and the prevalence of AKI was 24.5%, while the general mortality was 8.7%. AKI occurred 11 ± 2 days after the first vancomycin dose. The most frequent KDIGO stage was 1 (61%). There was no difference between patients who developed and did not develop AKI due to gender, length of hospital stay, dose, and time of vancomycin use. Logistic regression identified age (OR 6.6, CI 1.16–38.22, p = 0.03), plasmatic vancomycin concentrations between 96 and 144 h (OR 1.18, CI 1.04-1.40, p = 0.04), and urinary NGAL levels between 96 and 144 h (OR 1.123, CI 1.096–1.290, p = 0.03) as predictors of AKI. The time of vancomycin use (OR 4.61, CI 1.11–22.02, p = 0.03), higher plasmatic vancomycin concentrations between 192 and 240 h (OR 1.02, CI 0.98–1.06, p = 0.26), and higher cell cycle arrest urinary biomarkers TIMP-2 multiplied by IGFBP-7 between 144 and 192 h (OR 1.33, CI 1.10–1.62, p = 0.02; OR 1.19, CI 1.09–1.39, p = 0.04, respectively) were identified as prognostic factors for non-recovery of kidney function at discharge.

Conclusion: AKI related to vancomycin was frequent in patients hospitalized in wards. Age, plasmatic vancomycin concentrations, and NGAL between 96 and 144 h were identified as predictors of AKI related to vancomycin use. Plasmatic vancomycin concentrations and urinary NGAL were predictors of AKI diagnosis within the next 5 days. The urinary biomarkers of cell cycle arrest TIMP-2 and IGFBP-7 and the duration of vancomycin use were associated with non-recovery of kidney function at hospital discharge moment.

Development of a new pharmacokinetic model for target-concentration controlled infusion of vancomycin in critically ill patients

The aim of this prospective study was to construct a new pharmacokinetic model of vancomycin for target-concentration controlled infusion (TCI). As the first loading dose, 25 mg/kg of vancomycin was administered during 60-90 min. Arterial blood samples were obtained at pre-set intervals to measure the serum concentrations of vancomycin. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using the NONMEM software (ICON Development Solutions). In total, 197 serum concentration measurements from 22 patients were used to characterise the pharmacokinetics of vancomycin. A three-compartment mammillary model best described the pharmacokinetics of vancomycin in critically ill patients. The ideal body weight was a significant covariate for the central and slow peripheral volume of distribution. The weight and age converted to categorical variables at a cut-off of 65 years were a significant covariate for the clearance. Based on the results of stochastic simulation, the TCI method maintained the therapeutic concentration range for the longest duration. In addition, assuming that vancomycin was administered by the TCI method for 7 days, the dose was reduced by about 15% compared with the standard administration methods. The daily area under the curve values were maintained between 500 mg·h/L and 600 mg·h/L. TCI has the potential to become a new infusion method for patient-tailored dosing in critically ill patients. To administer vancomycin via TCI in clinical practice, the newly constructed pharmacokinetic model should undergo proper external validation.

Continuous infusion versus intermittent infusion vancomycin in a burn center intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

Vancomycin is a common and critical drug for empiric antimicrobial therapy in the infected burn patient. However, profound physiologic changes may impede the clinical effectiveness and amplify the potential nephrotoxicity of vancomycin.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study at a large academic medical center and regional burn center. Patients with ≥10% total body surface area burn that received intravenous vancomycin were considered for study inclusion. Patients were assigned to the intermittent infusion or continuous infusion cohort if they received vancomycin for ≥48 h with ≥1 documented vancomycin serum concentration. The target steady state drug level for continuous infusion was 17-22 mg/L. The target steady state trough drug level for intermittent infusion was 15-20 mg/L. The primary efficacy and safety outcomes were time to therapeutic drug level and nephrotoxicity respectively.

RESULTS

Thirty continuous infusion subjects with 88 plasma drug levels and thirty intermittent infusion subjects with 80 plasma drug levels were analyzed within the study period. There was a significant difference in the number of subjects that achieved a plasma vancomycin level within the target range during the course of therapy (73.3% for continuous infusion vs. 26.7% for intermittent infusion, p = 0.0003). The time to therapeutic level was 3.90 days for continuous infusion and 5.22 days for intermittent infusion (p = 0.0393). Nephrotoxicity occurred less frequently in the continuous infusion cohort (23.3% vs. 53.8%).

CONCLUSION

Continuous infusion vancomycin was associated with more rapid attainment of target levels and a lower rate of nephrotoxicity.

A Monocentric Retrospective Study of AUC/MIC Ratio of Vancomycin Associated with Clinical Outcomes and Nephrotoxicity in Patients with Enterococcal Infections

Vancomycin is an antibiotic commonly used for the treatment of enterococcal infections. However, there is no clear correlation regarding of vancomycin area under the curve/minimum inhibitory concentration (AUC/MIC) ratio and clinical outcomes for the treatment of enterococcal infections. The aims of this study were to evaluate the relationship of vancomycin AUC/MIC ratio in patients with clinical outcomes and nephrotoxicity for patients with documented enterococcal infections. A Bayesian technique was used to calculate the average vancomycin AUC_0–24. The MIC was determined using the VITEK 2 automated microbiology system, and the average AUC_0–24/MIC value was calculated for the first 72 h of therapy. All medical records of patients prescribed vancomycin with therapeutic drug monitoring were collected during January 2010–October 2020 at Chiang Mai University Hospital (CMUH). A retrospective single-center cohort of 312 participants were met the inclusion criteria. The results of this study showed that, a vancomycin AUC/MIC of ≥400 mg·h/L was associated with significant differences in clinical response compared to a vancomycin AUC/MIC of <400 mg·h/L (aHR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.26–0.97; p = 0.042). Likewise, a vancomycin AUC/MIC of ≥400 mg·h/L was associated with significant differences in the microbiological response (aHR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.14–0.94; p = 0.036), compared to a vancomycin AUC/MIC of <400 mg·h/L. However, nephrotoxicity in patients with a vancomycin AUC/MIC of ≥400 mg·h/L was higher than those with a vancomycin AUC/MIC of <400 mg·h/L (aHR: 3.96, 95% CI: 1.09–14.47; p = 0.037). Declining renal function may be a result of high vancomycin concentrations. In addition, declining renal function (e.g., failure to resolve the focus of infection, co-administration of other antibiotics) might result in higher AUC/MIC. We found a target vancomycin AUC/MIC of ≥400 mg·h/L and this AUC/MIC target value could be optimal for the use for monitoring treatment of enterococcal infections. Thus, vancomycin dosage must be adjusted to achieve the AUC/MIC target and closely monitored for renal function. These findings are not transferable to critically ill patients.

Attributable nephrotoxicity of vancomycin in critically ill patients: a marginal structural model study

BACKGROUND

Although vancomycin nephrotoxicity is recognizable, critically ill patients have other potential reasons for acute kidney injury (AKI) and determining its attributable nephrotoxic risk in this population can be cumbersome.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the risk of AKI attributable to vancomycin, controlling for baseline and time-dependent confounders.

METHODS

Time-fixed and daily time-varying variables were extracted from a large public database. The exposures analysed were: (i) IV vancomycin; (ii) serum trough level greater than 15 and 20 mg/L; and (iii) concomitant exposure to vancomycin and piperacillin/tazobactam or other antipseudomonal β-lactams. Censoring and exposure inverse probability of treatment weighting were calculated. Marginal structural models were plotted to evaluate AKI, severe AKI (stage 2/3) and need of renal replacement therapy (RRT).

RESULTS

A total of 26 865 patients were included; 19.7% received vancomycin during ICU stay. After adjusting for fixed and time-variable confounders, vancomycin exposure was associated with AKI (HR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.09-1.38), but not with severe AKI or need of RRT (HR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.91-1.23 and HR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.74-1.29, respectively). A serum trough level greater than 20 mg/L was associated with AKI (HR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.52-2.30) and severe AKI (HR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.31-2.19), but showed no statistically significant association with need of RRT (HR = 1.48, 95% CI = 0.92-2.56). The vancomycin + piperacillin/tazobactam combination was not associated with a greater risk than vancomycin alone.

CONCLUSIONS

The attributable nephrotoxicity of vancomycin in critically ill patients is significantly lower than previously suggested and severe AKI is related to vancomycin only when trough serum levels are greater than 20 mg/L.

Continuous Versus Intermittent Infusion of Vancomycin and the Risk of Acute Kidney Injury in Critically Ill Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

Critically ill patients routinely receive vancomycin as empiric antibiotic therapy. A continuous infusion administration strategy may be superior to intermittent infusion by minimizing peak concentrations and variability thereby optimizing safety. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the impact of vancomycin infusion strategy on acute kidney injury in critically ill adults.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, and Google Scholar was undertaken.

STUDY SELECTION

We included randomized controlled trials and observational studies evaluating acute kidney injury in critically ill adults comparing vancomycin administered by intermittent and continuous infusion. Secondary outcomes included mortality and pharmacokinetic target attainment.

DATA EXTRACTION

Eleven studies were identified for analysis with baseline demographics, endpoints, protocol definitions, and outcomes extracted.

DATA SYNTHESIS

When compared with intermittent infusion, continuous infusion was associated with a reduction in acute kidney injury in critically ill adults (odds ratio, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.34-0.65) and a 2.6 greater odds of pharmacokinetic target attainment (odds ratio, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.52-4.57). No difference in mortality was observed (odds ratio, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.80-1.35).

CONCLUSIONS

When administered via a continuous infusion, vancomycin is associated with a 53% reduction in the odds of acute kidney injury and a 2.6-fold higher odds of pharmacokinetic target attainment when compared with intermittent infusion without influencing overall mortality.

Vancomycin Dosing Practices among Critical Care Pharmacists: A Survey of Society of Critical Care Medicine Pharmacists

Introduction

Critically ill patients and their pharmacokinetics present complexities often not considered by consensus guidelines from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the Infectious Diseases Society of America, and the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists. Prior surveys have suggested discordance between certain guideline recommendations and reported infectious disease pharmacist practice. Vancomycin dosing practices, including institutional considerations, have not previously been well described in the critically ill patient population.

Objectives

To evaluate critical care pharmacists' self-reported vancomycin practices in comparison to the 2009 guideline recommendations and other best practices identified by the study investigators.

Methods

An online survey developed by the Research and Scholarship Committee of the Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology (CPP) Section of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) was sent to pharmacist members of the SCCM CPP Section practicing in adult intensive care units in the spring of 2017. This survey queried pharmacists' self-reported practices regarding vancomycin dosing and monitoring in critically ill adults.

Results

Three-hundred and sixty-four responses were received for an estimated response rate of 26%. Critical care pharmacists self-reported largely following the 2009 vancomycin dosing and monitoring guidelines. The largest deviations in guideline recommendation compliance involve consistent use of a loading dose, dosing weight in obese patients, and quality improvement efforts related to systematically monitoring vancomycin-associated nephrotoxicity. Variation exists regarding pharmacist protocols and other practices of vancomycin use in critically ill patients.

Conclusion

Among critical care pharmacists, reported vancomycin practices are largely consistent with the 2009 guideline recommendations. Variations in vancomycin dosing and monitoring protocols are identified, and rationale for guideline non-adherence with loading doses elucidated.

CSF penetration of vancomycin in critical care patients with proven or suspected ventriculitis: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Vancomycin is recommended for ventriculitis. However, penetration into the CNS is relatively poor.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the population pharmacokinetics of vancomycin in serum and CSF in critical care patients with proven or suspected CNS infections from neurosurgical procedures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was an observational pharmacokinetic study in critical care patients with proven or suspected CNS infections receiving intravenous vancomycin. Multiple blood and intraventricular CSF samples were collected. Population pharmacokinetic analysis and simulation were undertaken with ADAPT5 and Pmetrics.

RESULTS

A total of 187 blood and CSF samples were collected from 21 patients. The median (range) Cmax and Cmin concentrations in serum were 25.67 (10.60-50.78) and 9.60 (4.46-23.56) mg/L, respectively, with a median daily dose of 2500 (500-4000) mg. The corresponding median concentrations in CSF were 0.65 (<0.24-3.83) mg/L and 0.58 (<0.24-3.95) mg/L, respectively. The median AUC0-24 in serum and CSF was 455.09 and 14.10 mg·h/L, respectively. A three-compartment linear population pharmacokinetic model best fitted the observed data. Vancomycin demonstrated poor penetration into CSF, with a median CSF/serum ratio of 3% and high intersubject pharmacokinetic variability of its penetration.

CONCLUSIONS

Therapeutic drug monitoring in both serum and CSF and higher daily doses may be an option to ensure adequate trough levels and to optimize patient therapy. Novel dosing strategies designed to reduce renal toxicity, such as administration by continuous infusion, should be investigated in further clinical studies to avoid antibiotic underexposure in CSF.

The potential risk factors of nephrotoxicity during vancomycin therapy in Chinese adult patients

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate potential risk factors that may make patients susceptible to nephrotoxicity in those concomitantly receiving vancomycin in the hospital.

METHODS

This was a single-centre retrospective analysis of patients treated with vancomycin for gram-positive or mixed infections in the Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from January 2017 to May 2018. All of them were treated for ≥48 hours and had no kidney disease. Nephrotoxicity refers to acute kidney diseases and disorders after the use of vancomycin, and includes acute kidney injury. Univariate analysis and binary logistic regression analysis with the forward stepwise method were used to assess the risk factors associated with nephrotoxicity.

RESULTS

Of the 790 patients treated with vancomycin, only 257 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 40 (15.6%) subjects developed nephrotoxicity. Significant differences (p<0.05) were seen in the number of combined antimicrobials (p=0.012), dose adjustment (p<0.001), more than three antimicrobials (p=0.015), monitoring trough concentrations (p=0.001), furosemide (p<0.001), torasemide (p<0.001), cefoperazone sodium tazobactam sodium (p=0.039), voriconazole (p=0.012) and ganciclovir (p=0.008). Regression analysis further indicated that furosemide (OR 7.983, p<0.001) and torasemide (OR 3.496, p<0.001) were risk factors for vancomycin nephrotoxicity. Diabetes mellitus (OR 3.062, p=0.035), voriconazole (OR 3.515, p=0.020) and fluconazole (OR 3.326, p=0.018) might be also risk factors.

CONCLUSION

Fluconazole and voriconazole might be potential risk factors for vancomycin nephrotoxicity, besides furosemide and torasemide. It is not recommended to use imipenem cilastatin sodium and vancomycin at the same time. If necessary, meropenem may be safer. Appropriate combination drugs, cautious initial dose or timely dose adjustment might reduce the occurrence of nephrotoxicity when using vancomycin.

Impact of Nasal Swabs on Empiric Treatment of Respiratory Tract Infections (INSERT-RTI)

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcusaureus (MRSA) polymerase-chain-reaction nasal swabs (PCRNS) are a rapid diagnostic tool with a high negative predictive value. A PCRNS plus education “bundle” was implemented to inform clinicians on the utility of PCRNS for anti-MRSA therapy de-escalation in respiratory tract infections (RTI). The study included patients started on vancomycin with a PCRNS order three months before and after bundle implementation. The primary objective was the difference in duration of anti-MRSA therapy (DOT) for RTI. Secondary objectives included hospital length of stay (LOS), anti-MRSA therapy reinitiation, 30-day readmission, in-hospital mortality, and cost. We analyzed 62 of 110 patients screened, 20 in the preintervention and 42 in the postintervention arms. Mean DOT decreased after bundle implementation by 30.3 h (p = 0.039); mean DOT for patients with a negative PCRNS decreased by 39.7 h (p = 0.014). Median cost was lower after intervention [USD$51.69 versus USD$75.30 (p < 0.01)]. No significant difference in LOS, mortality, or readmission existed. The bundle implementation decreased vancomycin therapy and cost without negatively impacting patient outcomes.

Vancomycin dosing in critically ill trauma patients: The VANCTIC Study

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists recommend vancomycin troughs of 15 mg/L to 20 mg/L for serious methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections. The pharmacokinetics of vancomycin are altered in critically ill patients, leading to inadequate serum levels. Rates of initial therapeutic vancomycin troughs have ranged from 17.6% to 33% using intermittent infusions (i.e., 15-20 mg/L) and approximately 60% using continuous infusions (i.e., 15-25 mg/L) in critically ill trauma patients (1-4). We hypothesized that our dosing protocol would achieve higher rates of initial therapeutic troughs compared with previously published reports due to more aggressive loading doses than those seen in previously published reports.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of all critically ill trauma patients admitted to a Level I trauma intensive care unit over a 39-month period who had a suspected serious infection, who were treated with empiric vancomycin per the "pharmacy to dose" protocol, and who had an appropriately drawn steady state trough level. The primary outcome was the rate of initial therapeutic troughs, which was defined as 14.5 mg/L to 20.5 mg/L.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-seven patients were screened. Seventy patients met inclusion criteria. The study cohort had a median age of 47.5 years and a median Injury Severity Score of 28. Augmented renal clearances were observed, with a median creatinine clearance of 159.1 mL/min and a median Augmented Renal Clearance in Trauma Intensive Care (ARCTIC) score of 7. The median vancomycin loading dose was 24.6 mg/kg with an initial maintenance dose of 17.71 mg/kg. An every eight hour dosing interval was initiated on 47.14% of the patients, and 45.71% of the patients were initially started on an every 12 hour dosing interval. Only 15.71% of the study patients achieved an initial therapeutic trough; 42.86% were less than 10 mg/L, and 8.57% were greater than 20.5 mg/L. Acute kidney injury occurred in 10% based on the Infectious Diseases Society of America/American Society of Health-System Pharmacists vancomycin guidelines and in 11.4% based on the Acute Kidney Injury Network criteria.

CONCLUSION

Our incidence of initial therapeutic troughs was slightly below previously reported studies. Based on our results, which are consistent with previous literature, it would appear that our guideline-adherent protocol of intermittent vancomycin is insufficient to achieve troughs of 15 mg/L to 20 mg/L.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, level III.

Relationship of vancomycin trough levels with acute kidney injury risk: an exposure–toxicity meta-analysis

Objectives

Nephrotoxicity represents a major complication of vancomycin administration, leading to high rates of morbidity and treatment failure. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the association between trough levels and risk of renal impairment, by defining an exposure–toxicity relationship and assessing its accuracy in predicting the development of acute kidney injury (AKI).

Methods

Medline, Scopus, CENTRAL, Clinicaltrials.gov and Google Scholar databases were systematically searched from inception. Studies examining the effects of trough levels on nephrotoxicity risk in adult patients were deemed eligible.

Results

The meta-analysis was based on 60 studies, including 13 304 patients. The development of AKI was significantly linked to both higher initial [standardized mean difference (SMD): 0.82; 95% CI: 0.65–0.98] and maximum (SMD: 1.06; 95% CI: 0.82–1.29) trough levels. Dose–response analysis indicated a curvilinear relationship between trough levels and nephrotoxicity risk (χ2 = 127.1; P value &lt; 0.0001). A cut-off of 15 mg/L detected AKI with a sensitivity of 62.6% (95% CI: 55.6–69.2) and a specificity of 65.5% (95% CI: 58.9–71.6), while applying a 20 mg/L threshold resulted in a sensitivity of 42.9% (95% CI: 34–52.2) and a specificity of 82.5% (95% CI: 73.9–88.8).

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that the development of vancomycin-induced AKI is significantly associated with higher initial and maximum trough levels. An exposure–response relationship was defined, indicating that increasing trough levels correlate with a significant rise of nephrotoxicity risk. Future studies should verify the effectiveness of individualized pharmacokinetic tools that would enable the attainment of trough level targets and minimize the risk of renal toxicity.

Continuous Infusion Vancomycin in Pediatric Patients: A Critical Review of the Evidence

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the use of continuous infusion vancomycin in pediatric patients.

DATA SOURCES AND STUDY SELECTION

PubMed, Cochrane Library, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, and Google Scholar were searched to identify relevant published articles (1977 to November 2019) using the following search terms: vancomycin, neonates, pediatrics, infusion, continuous, administration, children, nephrotoxicity, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. All English-language primary references that evaluated continuous infusion vancomycin in pediatric patients were included in this review.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Vancomycin is typically administered with intermittent infusions, but continuous infusion is an alternative delivery method used to improve achievement of target serum concentrations. Fifteen articles were reviewed that evaluated continuous infusion vancomycin in pediatric patients. Study data were heterogeneous with limited evidence to support improved clinical or microbiologic outcomes as compared with intermittent dosing. Potential benefits and limitations of continuous infusions are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

Currently available evidence is lacking to support routine implementation of continuous infusion vancomycin in pediatric patients. However, it is a therapeutic option in certain clinical conditions and could be beneficial for individuals with serious Gram-positive infections where rapid achievement of target serum concentrations is critical. Continuous infusions may also benefit individuals who do not achieve target concentrations or who experience significant red man syndrome with traditional dosing, particularly when high daily doses are required. Optimal dosing and ideal target serum concentrations have not been established and may vary for different populations. Future prospective randomized clinical trials should be performed to identify optimal dosing and monitoring regimens and determine comparative safety and efficacy with traditional intermittent dosing in various pediatric populations.

Development and Validation of a Risk Prediction Model of Vancomycin-Associated Nephrotoxicity in Elderly Patients: A Pilot Study

This exploratory study aimed to develop a risk prediction model of vancomycin‐associated nephrotoxicity (VANT) in elderly patients. Clinical information of elderly patients who received vancomycin therapy from January 2016 to June 2018 was retrieved. A total of 255 patients were included in this study. Univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that vancomycin trough concentration ≥ 20 mg/L (odds ratio (OR) = 3.009; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.345–6.732), surgery (OR = 3.357; 95% CI 1.309–8.605), the Charlson Comorbidities Index ≥ 4 points (OR = 2.604; 95% CI 1.172–5.787), concomitant use of cardiotonic drug (OR = 3.283; 95% CI 1.340–8.042), plasma volume expander (OR = 3.459; 95% CI 1.428–8.382), and piperacillin/tazobactam (OR = 2.547; 95% CI 1.680–6.007) were risk factors for VANT in elderly patients. Furthermore, a VANT risk prediction model was developed, which had good discriminative power and was well‐calibrated.

Right Dose Right Now: bedside data-driven personalized antibiotic dosing in severe sepsis and septic shock - rationale and design of a multicenter randomized controlled superiority trial

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic exposure is often inadequate in critically ill patients with severe sepsis or septic shock and this is associated with worse outcomes. Despite markedly altered and rapidly changing pharmacokinetics in these patients, guidelines and clinicians continue to rely on standard dosing schemes. To address this challenge, we developed AutoKinetics, a clinical decision support system for antibiotic dosing. By feeding large amounts of electronic health record patient data into pharmacokinetic models, patient-specific predicted future plasma concentrations are displayed graphically. In addition, a tailored dosing advice is provided at the bedside in real time. To evaluate the effect of AutoKinetics on pharmacometric and clinical endpoints, we are conducting the Right Dose Right Now multicenter, randomized controlled, two-arm, parallel-group, non-blinded, superiority trial.

METHODS

All adult intensive care patients with a suspected or proven infection and having either lactatemia or receiving vasopressor support are eligible for inclusion. Randomization to the AutoKinetics or control group is initiated at the bedside when prescribing at least one of four commonly administered antibiotics: ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, meropenem and vancomycin. Dosing advice is available for patients in the AutoKinetics group, whereas patients in the control group receive standard dosing. The primary outcome of the study is pharmacometric target attainment during the first 24 h. Power analysis revealed the need for inclusion of 42 patients per group per antibiotic. Thus, a total of 336 patients will be included, 168 in each group. Secondary pharmacometric endpoints include time to target attainment and fraction of target attainment during an entire antibiotic course. Secondary clinical endpoints include mortality, clinical cure and days free from organ support. Several other exploratory and subgroup analyses are planned.

DISCUSSION

This is the first randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness and safety of bedside data-driven automated antibiotic dosing advice. This is important as adequate antibiotic exposure may be crucial to treat severe sepsis and septic shock. In addition, the trial could prove to be a significant contribution to clinical pharmacometrics and serve as a stepping stone for the use of big data and artificial intelligence in the field.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Netherlands Trial Register (NTR), NL6501/NTR6689. Registered on 25 August 2017. European Clinical Trials Database (EudraCT), 2017-002478-37. Registered on 6 November 2017.

Vancomycin Area Under the Curve and Acute Kidney Injury: A Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This study analyzed the relationship between vancomycin area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) and acute kidney injury (AKI) reported across recent studies.

METHODS

A systematic review of PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and compiled references was conducted. We included randomized cohort and case-control studies that reported vancomycin AUCs and risk of AKI (from 1990 to 2018). The primary outcome was AKI, defined as an increase in serum creatinine of ≥0.5 mg/L or a 50% increase from baseline on ≥2 consecutive measurements. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Primary analyses compared the impact of AUC cutpoint (greater than ~650 mg × hour/L) and AKI. Additional analysis compared AUC vs trough-guided monitoring on AKI incidence.

RESULTS

Eight observational studies met inclusion/exclusion criteria with data for 2491 patients. Five studies reported first-24-hour AUCs (AUC0-24) and AKI, 2 studies reported 24- to 48-hour AUCs (AUC24-48) and AKI, and 2 studies reported AKI associated with AUC- vs trough-guided monitoring. AUC less than approximately 650 mg × hour/L was associated with decreased AKI for AUC0-24 (OR, 0.36 [95% CI, .23-.56]) as well as AUC24-48 (OR, 0.45 [95% CI, .27-.75]). AKI associated with the AUC monitoring strategy was significantly lower than trough-guided monitoring (OR, 0.68 [95% CI, .46-.99]).

CONCLUSIONS

AUCs measured in the first or second 24 hours and lower than approximately 650 mg × hour/L may result in a decreased risk of AKI. Vancomycin AUC monitoring strategy may result in less vancomycin-associated AKI. Additional investigations are warranted.

The Benefit of Individualized Vancomycin Dosing Via Pharmacokinetic Tools: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Various pharmacokinetic (PK) equations and software have been developed to individualize vancomycin dosing. However, the benefit of using any PK information to guide vancomycin dosing has not been fully elucidated. Objective: To appraise available evidence on the effectiveness and safety of individualized vancomycin dosing via PK tools. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and 2 Chinese literature databases were searched through August 1, 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies that reported the PK and clinical outcomes of individualized vancomycin dosing versus empirical dosing were included. Pooled risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences were calculated for dichotomous and continuous outcomes, respectively. Results: A total of 21 studies involving 4346 patients were finally included, of which 3 were RCTs and 18 were cohort studies. Meta-analysis revealed that PK-guided vancomycin dosing significantly increased the attainment of target trough concentration (RR = 1.59; 95% CI = 1.49-1.70) and decreased the incidence of nephrotoxicity (RR = 0.57; 95% CI = 0.46-0.71). Additionally, the available evidence showed that target area under the curve/minimum inhibitory concentration attainment rate and time to target concentration could improve. However, the evidence on clinical outcomes was scarce, and no significant differences were detected in clinical response rate, microbiological eradication rate, mortality, and length of hospital stay between PK-guided vancomycin dosing and empirical dosing strategies. Conclusion and Relevance: Individualized vancomycin dosing via PK tools significantly increases the attainment of target trough concentration and decreases the incidence of nephrotoxicity. Evidence on clinical effectiveness was limited and showed no significant benefit. Further well-designed studies are warranted to assess its clinical effectiveness and inform routine care.

[Adequate anti-infective treatment : Importance of individual dosing and application]

Sepsis-induced changes in pharmacokinetic parameters are a well-known problem in intensive care medicine. Dosing of antibiotics in this setting is therefore challenging. Alterations to the substance-specific kinetics of anti-infective substances have an effect on the distribution and excretion processes in the body. Increased clearance and an increased distribution volume (V_d) and particularly compromized organ function with reduced antibiotic elimination are often encountered in patients with sepsis. Renal replacement treatment, which is frequently used in intensive care medicine, represents a substantial intervention in this system. Current international guidelines recommend individualized dosing strategies and adaptation of doses according to measured serum levels and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) parameters as concepts to optimize anti-infective therapy in the critically ill. Likewise, the recommendation to adjust the administration form of beta-lactam antibiotics to prolonged or continuous infusion can be found increasingly more often in the literature. This article reviews the background of the individual dosing in intensive care patients and their applicability to the clinical routine.

Vancomycin-associated nephrotoxicity in non-critically ill patients admitted in a Brazilian public hospital: A prospective cohort study

Introduction

Vancomycin is widely used to treat infections caused by Gram positive bacteria, mostly methicillin-resistant strains. Despite its therapeutic effectiveness, vancomycin is a nephrotoxic drug that has been associated with the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI). In this study, we sought to evaluate the variability of serum trough concentrations of vancomycin and to determine the incidence and risk factors of vancomycin-associated nephrotoxicity (VAN) in non-critically ill patients.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort including Brazilian public hospital inpatients from April 2017 to June 2018. The participants received intravenous vancomycin therapy for at least 48 hours for any suspected or confirmed infection by Gram positive bacteria. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected. Information on vancomycin therapy and concomitant use of other nephrotoxic drugs were also recorded. Patients were followed up until discontinuation of vancomycin treatment or death, whatever occurred first. The primary outcome was the occurrence of AKI. We performed a Poisson regression to determine risk factors for AKI.

Results

Overall, 98 participants were included in the study. Median age was 55.9 (interquartile range [IQR] 40.6–66.8) years and 58 (59.2%) were men. Most of them showed subtherapeutic (<10mg/L) or supratherapeutic (>20mg/L) trough levels of vancomycin; 42.9% and 15.3%, respectively. A total of 19 (19.4%) patients developed AKI. Poisson regression showed that male sex (odds ratio [OR] 2.90; confidence interval [CI] 95% 1.28–6.53; p = 0.011), concomitant use of piperacillin-tazobactam (OR 4.66; CI 95% 2.26–9.58; p <0.001) and vancomycin trough levels above 20mg/mL (OR 4.21; CI 95% 1.57–11.278; p = 0.004) were independently associated with AKI.

Conclusions

Our study showed that usual doses of vancomycin did not reach recommended therapeutic serum trough levels of vancomycin in non-critically ill patients. Besides that, nephrotoxicity was common in this population, being associated with male sex, concomitant use of piperacillin-tazobactam and supra-therapeutic trough serum levels of vancomycin.

Comparison of acute kidney injury and clinical prognosis of vancomycin monotherapy and combination therapy with beta-lactams in the intensive care unit

Antibiotics induced acute kidney injury (AKI) risk in critically ill patients is not well known. This study aimed to evaluate the AKI development and clinical outcomes in critically ill adult patients treated with vancomycin (VAN) or combined with piperacillin-tazobactam (TZP) or meropenem (MEM). This was a retrospective study on critically ill adult patients who were given VAN, TZP or MEM and maintained for at least 48 h. The risk of AKI development and clinical outcomes were compared using the simple analysis and multivariate logistic regression. Three hundred forty patients were eligible. The incidence of any AKI was significantly higher in patients treated with VAN + TZP than those with VAN + MEM or VAN alone (52.7% vs. 27.7% vs. 25.7%; p < .0001). The adjusted odds of AKI increased 2.43-fold in VAN + TZP versus VAN, but not different in VAN + MEM versus VAN. However, AKI duration and recovery rate were not statistically different. In addition, all-cause death within 30 days after AKI onset was not significantly associated with antibiotic regimens. AKI incidence is higher in critically ill patients administered with VAN + TZP than those with VAN + MEM or VAN. However, no obvious evidence was found to prove that antibiotic-induced AKI leads to poor clinical outcomes.

Acute kidney injury during daptomycin versus vancomycin treatment in cardiovascular critically ill patients: a propensity score matched analysis

Background

Gram-positive organisms are a leading cause of infection in cardiovascular surgery. Furthermore, these patients have a high risk of developing postoperative renal failure in intensive care unit (ICU). Some antibiotic drugs are known to impair renal function. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether patients treated for Gram-positive cardiovascular infection with daptomycin (DAP) experienced a lower incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) when compared to patients treated with vancomycin (VAN), with comparable efficacy.

Methods

ICU patients who received either DAP or VAN, prior to or after cardiovascular surgery or mechanical circulatory support, from January 2010 to December 2012, were included in this observational retrospective cohort study. We excluded patients with end stage renal disease and antibiotic prophylaxis. The primary endpoint was the incidence of AKI within the first week of treatment. Secondary endpoints were the incidence of AKI within the first 14 days of treatment, the severity of AKI including renal replacement therapy (RRT), the rates of clinical failure (unsuccessful infection treatment) and of premature discontinuation and mortality. To minimize selection bias, we used a propensity score to compare the 2 groups. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to determine factors associated with AKI.

Results

Seventy two patients, treated for infective endocarditis, cardiovascular foreign body infection, or surgical site infection were included (DAP, n = 28 and VAN, n = 44). AKI at day 7 was observed in 28 (64%) versus 6 (21%) of the VAN and DAP patients, respectively (p = 0.001). In the multivariate analysis adjusted to the propensity score, vancomycin treatment was the only factor associated with AKI (Odds Ratio 4.42; 95% CI: 1.39–15.34; p = 0.014). RRT was required for 2 (7%) DAP patients and 13 (30%) VAN patients, p = 0.035. Premature discontinuation and clinical failure occurred more frequently in VAN group than in DAP group (25% versus 4%, p = 0.022 and 42% versus 12%, respectively, p = 0.027).

Conclusions

Daptomycin appears to be safer than vancomycin in terms of AKI risk in ICU patients treated for cardiovascular procedure-related infection. Daptomycin could be considered as a first line treatment to prevent AKI in high-risk patients.

Vancomycin-Associated Acute Kidney Injury in Critically Ill Adolescent and Young Adult Patients

BACKGROUND

Risk factors for the development of vancomycin-associated acute kidney injury (AKI) have been evaluated in both pediatric and adult populations; however, no previous studies exist evaluating this in the critically ill adolescent and young adult patients.

OBJECTIVE

Identify the incidence of AKI and examine risk factors for the development of AKI in critically ill adolescents and young adults on vancomycin.

METHODS

This retrospective review evaluated the incidence of AKI in patients 15 to 25 years of age who received vancomycin, while admitted to an intensive care unit. Acute kidney injury in this population was defined as an increase in serum creatinine by 0.5 mg/dL or 50% from baseline. Patients who developed AKI were evaluated for specific risk factors compared to those who did not develop AKI.

RESULTS

A total of 50 patients (20 developed AKI) were included in the study. There was no difference in vancomycin daily dose or duration of vancomycin therapy. Maximum vancomycin trough (31.15 mg/dL vs 12.5 mg/dL, P = .006), percentage of patients with concurrent nephrotoxic medication (95% vs 60%, P = .012) and concurrent vasopressor (55% vs 23%, P = .029) were higher in those who developed AKI. Percentage of patients who underwent a procedure while on vancomycin (35% vs 6.7%, P = .021) was also higher within the AKI group.

CONCLUSIONS

Vancomycin-associated AKI occurred in 40% of critically ill adolescent and young adult patients. These patients may be more likely to develop vancomycin-associated AKI if they had undergone a procedure, as well as in the presence of high vancomycin trough levels, concurrent nephrotoxic agents, and concurrent vasopressor therapy.

Catheter-related bloodstream infections with coagulase-negative staphylococci: are antibiotics necessary if the catheter is removed?

Background

Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) with coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS) are a common source of hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. The main objective of this study was to elucidate the role of systemic antibiotic therapy in the setting of catheter removal in adult patients with CoNS-CRBSI.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study on patients with CoNS-CRBSI diagnosed between 2008 and 2016 with follow-up for up to 12 months. The main inclusion criterion was a removed intravascular catheter with quantitative catheter tip culture growing CoNS and the same CoNS identified in the blood culture of a given patient. Outcomes were non-resolved infection (i.e. either presence of prolonged bacteremia or symptoms attributed to CoNS-CRBSI > 2 days after catheter removal), recurrence, mortality and length of hospitalization after catheter removal. We compared outcomes between a group with antibiotic treatment prescribed according to current IDSA guidelines (≥5 days, "treatment" group) and a "no-treatment" group.

Results

Our study population comprised 184 CoNS-CRBSI episodes. Seventy-six percent received antibiotic treatment ≥5 days, while 17% did not receive therapy. Non-resolved infections were absent from the patients who did not receive antibiotics. Severe neutropenia, hematologic cancer and immunosuppression were significantly more frequent in the treatment group. The subgroup analysis with 32 matched pairs showed no significant difference in frequency of non-resolved infection (0% in the no-treatment vs 15.6% in the ≥5 days treatment group, p = 0.06). The remaining outcomes were similar in the two groups.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that withholding antimicrobial therapy in CoNS-CRBSI is neither associated with short-term complications nor with long-term recurrences.

Vancomycin associated acute kidney injury in pediatric patients

INTRODUCTION

Vancomycin associated acute kidney injury (vAKI) is a well known complication in pediatric patients. Identification and characterization of the incidence and risk factors for vAKI in the pediatric population would assist clinicians in potentially preventing or mitigating vAKI.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A 6 year retrospective cohort study was designed. Patients were included if they were < 19 years of age, received vancomycin as inpatients, and had a baseline SCr and one other SCr drawn during and up to 72 hours after the discontinuation of vancomycin. Data collection included patient demographics, vancomycin doses and length of therapy, vancomycin serum concentrations, and concomitant medications. The Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria were used to characterize acute kidney injury. Descriptive statistical methods were used and ordinal logistic regression was employed to determine variables significantly associated with vAKI.

RESULTS

A total of 7,095 patients met study criteria (55.4% male, median age 4.1 years (IQR 0.67-11.2 years)). Mechanical ventilation was used in 7.9% (n = 563) and mortality was 4.9% (n = 344). A total of 153 concomitant medications were identified. A median of 5 (IQR 3-7) SCr values were obtained and median SCr prior to vancomycin was 0.39 (IQR 0.28-0.57) mg/dL (CrCl 134±58 mL/min/1.73m2). Vancomycin was administered for a median of 2 (IQR 1-3) days (14.9±1.6 mg/kg/dose). vAKI was present in 12.2% (n = 862: KDIGO stage 1 (8.30%, n = 589), KDIGO stage 2 (1.94%, n = 138) KDIGO stage 3 (1.89%, n = 134)). Mean vancomycin serum concentration at 6-8 hours after a dose for patients with vAKI (10.7±8.9 mg/L) was significantly, but not clinically different for patients with no vAKI (7.5±6.3 mg/L). (p<0.05) Ordinal logistic regression identified total dose of vancomycin, vancomycin administration in the intensive care unit, and concomitant medication administration as significant for vAKI. In particular, concomitant administration of several different medications, including nafcillin, clindamycin, and acetazolamide, were noted for strong associations with vAKI. (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate to severe acute kidney injury due to vancomycin is infrequent in children and associated with concomitant medication use and total dose of vancomycin. Serum vancomycin concentrations are not useful predictors of vAKI in the pediatric population.

Drug-induced kidney disease in the ICU: mechanisms, susceptibility, diagnosis and management strategies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in the critically ill population, is multifactorial and associated with increased mortality. Drug-induced kidney injury is a significant contributor to the development of AKI. The purpose of this review is to provide updates in the epidemiology, susceptibility and management of drug-induced kidney disease (DIKD).

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent changes in guidelines for the management of serious infections in the critically ill have resulted in an increased frequency of DIKD. Varying definitions employed in clinical trials has complicated the awareness of this adverse event. Causality assessment is often missing from studies as it is complicated by the need to evaluate competing AKI risk factors. This has led to uncertainty in the nephrotoxic risk of commonly used drugs.

SUMMARY

Standard criteria for DIKD should be applied in clinical trials to improve our understanding of the frequency of these events. Adjudication of these events will improve the clinician's ability to evaluate the causal relationship and relative contribution of specific drugs to the AKI event.

Individualized Pharmacokinetic Dosing of Vancomycin Reduces Time to Therapeutic Trough Concentrations in Critically Ill Patients

Dosing vancomycin in critically ill patients often results in subtherapeutic and supratherapeutic trough concentrations. In this retrospective study, we compared the time to goal trough attainment and incidence of acute kidney injury in intensive care unit (ICU) patients whose vancomycin was dosed by a pharmacy pharmacokinetic (PK) dosing and monitoring service to the standard of care. Three-hundred fifty adult ICU patients at a Level 1 trauma, teaching hospital who received vancomycin for >24 hours from February 1, 2016, to November 30, 2016, were screened. Patients were included in the PK group if consecutive serum concentrations were used to calculate individualized PK and determine a dosing regimen. Patients who were dosed using troughs only were then matched 1-to-1 to the PK group by date of vancomycin initiation and included in the traditional group. Fifty patients were included in each group. Baseline characteristics were similar, except the PK group had more patients under the care of the neuromedical ICU service (42% vs 18%; P = .02) and fewer patients with a corrected creatinine clearance <30 mL/min/1.73 m² (22% vs 46%; P = .02). Attainment of goal trough concentrations for the PK and traditional groups were 84.4% and 29.4% by 48 hours (P = .0001), 88.4% and 60.7% by 72 hours (P = .009), and 92.9% and 77.8% by 96 hours (P = .1), respectively. Incidence of acute kidney injury between the PK and traditional groups was not statistically significant (8.3% vs 14%; P = .5). Utilization of individualized pharmacokinetic dosing of vancomycin in critically ill patients resulted in faster goal trough attainment without an increase in nephrotoxicity.

Vancomycin-induced acute kidney injury in elderly Chinese patients: a single-centre cross-sectional study

AIMS

The objective of the present study was to investigate the current situation concerning, and risk factors for, vancomycin (VAN)-induced acute kidney injury (VI-AKI) in elderly Chinese patients, to assess outcomes and risk factors in patients who have developed VI-AKI, in order to provide suggestions for improving the prevention and treatment of this condition in these patients.

METHOD

We retrospectively identified elderly older inpatients who had received four or more doses of VAN treatment. We compared patients with VI-AKI with those who received VAN treatment and had not developed AKI (NO-AKI). We defined VI-AKI as developing AKI during VAN therapy or within 3 days after withdrawal of VAN.

RESULTS

A total of 647 out of 862 elderly inpatients were included in the study. Among those excluded, in 89.3% of cases (192/215) this was because of lack of data on serum creatinine (SCr). Among included patients, 32.5% (210/647) of patients received therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) during VAN therapy. In 66.9% of cases (424/634), there was insufficient TDM, and in 3.9% (25/634) this was appropriate. A total of 102 patients had confirmed VI-AKI, with an incidence of 15.8% (102/647). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that hyperuricaemia [odds ratio (OR) = 3.045; P = 0.000)], mechanical ventilation (OR = 1.906; P = 0.022) and concomitant vasopressor therapy (OR = 1.919; P = 0.027) were independent risk factors for VI-AKI; higher serum albumin (OR = 0.885; P = 0.000) was determined to be an independent protective factor for VI-AKI.

CONCLUSIONS

For the elderly Chinese patients treated with VAN, there was insufficient monitoring of SCr, too little use of VAN TDM, and lower rate of patients whose VAN though serum concentrations were not obtained at the correct time. We recommend that hospital managers increase investment in clinical pharmacists, to strengthen professional management. Patients with concomitant hyperuricaemia and on mechanical ventilation and vasopressor therapy should be paid more attention, and a higher serum albumin was determined to be an independent protective factor for VI-AKI.

Application of Antibiotic Pharmacodynamics and Dosing Principles in Patients With Sepsis

Sepsis is associated with marked mortality, which may be reduced by prompt initiation of adequate, appropriate doses of antibiotic. Critically ill patients often have physiological changes that reduce blood and tissue concentrations of antibiotic and high rates of multidrug-resistant pathogens, which may affect patients' outcomes. All critical care professionals, including critical care nurses, should understand antibiotic pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to ensure sound antibiotic dosing and administration strategies for optimal microbial killing and patients' outcomes. Effective pathogen eradication occurs when the dose of antibiotic reaches or maintains optimal concentrations relative to the minimum inhibitory concentration for the pathogen. Time-dependent antibiotics, such as β-lactams, can be given as extended or continuous infusions. Concentration-dependent antibiotics such as aminoglycosides are optimized by using high, once-daily dosing strategies with serum concentration monitoring. Vancomycin and fluoroquinolones are dependent on both time and concentration above the minimum inhibitory concentration.

Identification of Vancomycin Exposure-Toxicity Thresholds in Hospitalized Patients Receiving Intravenous Vancomycin

Evidence supports vancomycin therapeutic-drug monitoring by area under the concentration-time curve (AUC), but data to establish an AUC upper limit are limited and published nephrotoxicity thresholds range widely. The objective of this analysis was to examine the association between initial vancomycin AUC and nephrotoxicity. This was a multicenter, retrospective cohort study of adult patients receiving intravenous vancomycin from 2014 to 2015. Nephrotoxicity was defined as a serum creatinine increase of 0.5 mg/liter and 50% from baseline on consecutive measurements. Vancomycin exposure profile during the initial 48 h of therapy was estimated using maximum a posteriori probability Bayesian estimation. Vancomycin AUC and minimum-concentration (Cmin) thresholds most strongly associated with nephrotoxicity were identified via classification and regression tree (CART) analysis. Predictive performances of CART-derived and other candidate AUC thresholds was assessed through positive and negative predictive value and receiver operating characteristic curves. Poisson regression was used to quantify the association between exposure thresholds and nephrotoxicity while adjusting for confounders. Among 323 patients included, nephrotoxicity was significantly higher in patients with AUCs from 0 to 48 h (AUC0-48) of ≥1,218 mg · h/liter, AUC0-24 of ≥677 mg · h/liter, AUC24-48 of ≥683 mg · h/liter, and day 1 Cmin (Cmin24) of ≥18.8 mg/liter. Vancomycin exposure in excess of these thresholds was associated with a 3- to 4-fold-increased risk of nephrotoxicity in Poisson regression. The predictive performance of AUC for nephrotoxicity was maximized at daily AUC values between 600 and 800 mg · h/liter. Although these data support an AUC range for vancomycin-associated nephrotoxity rather than a single threshold, available evidence suggests that a daily AUC limit of 700 mg · h/liter is reasonable.

Vancomycin Plus Piperacillin-Tazobactam and Acute Kidney Injury in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess acute kidney injury with combination therapy of vancomycin plus piperacillin-tazobactam, in general, adult patients and in critically ill adults. Rates of acute kidney injury, time to acute kidney injury, and odds of acute kidney injury were compared with vancomycin monotherapy, vancomycin plus cefepime or carbapenem, or piperacillin-tazobactam monotherapy.

DATA SOURCES

Studies were identified by searching Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane from inception to April 2017. Abstracts from selected conference proceedings were manually searched.

STUDY SELECTION

Articles not in English, pediatric studies, and case reports were excluded.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two authors independently extracted data on study methods, rates of acute kidney injury, and time to acute kidney injury. Effect estimates and 95% CIs were calculated using the random effects model in RevMan 5.3.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Literature search identified 15 published studies and 17 conference abstracts with at least 24,799 patients. The overall occurrence rate of acute kidney injury was 16.7%, with 22.2% for vancomycin plus piperacillin-tazobactam and 12.9% for comparators. This yielded an overall number needed to harm of 11. Time to acute kidney injury was faster for vancomycin plus piperacillin-tazobactam than vancomycin plus cefepime or carbapenem, but not significantly (mean difference, -1.30; 95% CI, -3.00 to 0.41 d). The odds of acute kidney injury with vancomycin plus piperacillin-tazobactam were increased versus vancomycin monotherapy (odds ratio, 3.40; 95% CI, 2.57-4.50), versus vancomycin plus cefepime or carbapenem (odds ratio, 2.68; 95% CI, 1.83-3.91), and versus piperacillin-tazobactam monotherapy (odds ratio, 2.70; 95% CI, 1.97-3.69). In a small subanalysis of 968 critically ill patients, the odds of acute kidney injury were increased versus vancomycin monotherapy (odds ratio, 9.62; 95% CI, 4.48-20.68), but not significantly different for vancomycin plus cefepime or carbapenem (odds ratio, 1.43; 95% CI, 0.83-2.47) or piperacillin-tazobactam monotherapy (odds ratio, 1.35; 95% CI, 0.86-2.11).

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of vancomycin plus piperacillin-tazobactam increased the odds of acute kidney injury over vancomycin monotherapy, vancomycin plus cefepime or carbapenem, and piperacillin-tazobactam monotherapy. Limited data in critically ill patients suggest the odds of acute kidney injury are increased versus vancomycin monotherapy, and mitigated versus the other comparators. Further research in the critically ill population is needed.