Vancomycin Pediatric Dosing
Glycopeptide antibiotic dosing for MRSA, C. difficile, and serious Gram-positive infections in children.
Weight in kilograms
Age in months
Clinical indication
⚠️ Warnings & Contraindications
- NEPHROTOXICITY: Monitor renal function daily; risk increased with concurrent aminoglycosides
- RED MAN SYNDROME: Infuse over at least 60 minutes to prevent histamine-mediated reaction
- Infuse over 60-120 minutes to minimize histamine release; may premedicate with antihistamine
- Ototoxicity possible with high troughs
- Oral vancomycin not absorbed - only for GI infections (C. difficile)
- Therapeutic drug monitoring required; target trough 10-15 mcg/mL for most infections, 15-20 for meningitis/pneumonia
- AUC/MIC-guided dosing (400-600) preferred over trough-only monitoring when available
ℹ️ Clinical Notes
IV formulation: 500 mg, 1 g, 5 g, 10 g vials (reconstitute and dilute). Oral solution can be compounded from IV vial. For MRSA pneumonia, may add rifampin or use linezolid if inadequate response.
References
- Vancomycin dosing in children - pharmacokinetics - Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (2016)
- Vancomycin pediatric dosing - Drugs.com (2026)
- Vancomycin AUC/MIC target in pediatric patients - PMC (2023)
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or calculated using this tool.
The authors and publishers of this calculator make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained within this tool for any purpose.