Why is this medication prescribed?

Dalbavancin injection is prescribed to treat certain bacterial infections. Dalbavancin injection belongs to a class of medications called glycopeptide antibiotics and works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

Dalbavancin is typically used to treat skin and skin structure infections caused by certain bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Streptococcus pyogenes.

How should this medicine be used?

Dalbavancin injection is typically administered intravenously (IV), meaning it is injected directly into a vein. The injection should be given slowly over a period of approximately 30 minutes to ensure proper absorption and minimize the risk of side effects.

Here’s a general guideline for the administration of Dalbavancin:

• Preparation: The healthcare provider will prepare the injection by following the manufacturer’s instructions. This may involve diluting the medication with a compatible IV solution if necessary.
• Administration: The injection is usually given in a healthcare setting such as a hospital, clinic, or infusion center. A healthcare professional, such as a nurse or doctor, will administer the injection.
• Infusion: The injection should be given slowly over about 30 minutes. Rapid infusion can increase the risk of certain side effects, so it’s important to adhere to the recommended infusion rate.
• Monitoring: During and after the infusion, the patient may be monitored for any adverse reactions or side effects. Vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature may be checked regularly.
• Follow-up: After receiving Dalbavancin, the patient may be instructed to follow up with their healthcare provider for further monitoring or evaluation, depending on the nature and severity of their condition.

It’s crucial to strictly adhere to the dosage and administration instructions provided by the healthcare provider to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize the risk of complications. Additionally, patients should complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if they start feeling better before the medication is finished, to prevent the recurrence of infection or the development of antibiotic resistance.

Other uses for this medicine

As for other uses of Dalbavancin injection, it is primarily indicated for the treatment of acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections caused by certain susceptible bacteria. It is not typically used for other types of infections unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using Dalbavancin injection, here are some important considerations:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies to Dalbavancin or other antibiotics, especially glycopeptide antibiotics like vancomycin. This medication should be used with caution in patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to glycopeptide antibiotics.
• Medical History: Provide a comprehensive medical history to your healthcare provider, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Dalbavancin during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, so the potential risks and benefits should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as they may interact with Dalbavancin. Certain medications, such as anticoagulants (blood thinners), may increase the risk of bleeding when used concomitantly with Dalbavancin.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor your kidney function and other laboratory parameters periodically during treatment with Dalbavancin to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
• Adverse Reactions: Be aware of potential adverse reactions or side effects associated with Dalbavancin, such as infusion-related reactions, gastrointestinal disturbances, and changes in laboratory parameters. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms while receiving Dalbavancin injection.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and recommendations regarding the use of Dalbavancin and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly for proper evaluation and management.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are typically no specific dietary restrictions associated with Dalbavancin injection. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support overall health and aid in recovery from infections.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Since Dalbavancin is usually administered as a single dose or a two-dose regimen spaced one week apart, the likelihood of forgetting a dose is minimal. However, if you miss an appointment for your scheduled dose, promptly contact your healthcare provider to reschedule. It’s essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed to effectively treat the infection and prevent recurrence or antibiotic resistance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Dalbavancin injection, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea and vomiting, while receiving Dalbavancin.
• Headache: Headaches are a relatively common side effect reported by some individuals receiving Dalbavancin injection.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea may occur as a side effect of Dalbavancin treatment, although it is typically mild and transient.
• Rash or itching: Skin reactions such as rash or itching may occur in some patients receiving Dalbavancin injection.
• Infusion-related reactions: Some individuals may experience infusion-related reactions during or shortly after receiving Dalbavancin injection. These reactions may include fever, chills, flushing, or dizziness.
• Liver function abnormalities: Rarely, Dalbavancin may cause changes in liver function tests, although significant liver damage is uncommon.
• Kidney function abnormalities: While uncommon, Dalbavancin may cause changes in kidney function tests in some individuals.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to Dalbavancin are possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or severe rash.

It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, individual responses to medication can vary, so not everyone will experience the same side effects.

If you experience any concerning or persistent side effects while receiving Dalbavancin injection, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide appropriate management and may adjust your treatment regimen if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Dalbavancin Injection:

• Storage: Dalbavancin injection should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Avoid freezing the medication. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Dalbavancin injection properly according to local regulations or as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not dispose of medications in wastewater or household trash unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or overdose involving Dalbavancin injection, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center (in the United States, you can call 1-800-222-1222) for assistance. Be prepared to provide information such as the amount of medication ingested, the time of ingestion, and any symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Effectiveness: Dalbavancin should be used only for the condition prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not share this medication with others or use it for any other purpose not prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and evaluation during and after treatment with Dalbavancin injection. Follow their instructions carefully and report any concerning symptoms or side effects promptly.
• Antibiotic Resistance: Antibiotics like Dalbavancin should be used judiciously and only when necessary to minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance. Do not use Dalbavancin for viral infections such as the common cold or flu, as it is ineffective against viruses.
• Incomplete Treatment: Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to incomplete treatment and increase the risk of recurrent infection or antibiotic resistance.
• Medical Alert: Inform other healthcare providers, including dentists and emergency medical personnel, that you are receiving Dalbavancin injection, especially if you are scheduled for any surgical procedures or dental work.
• Missed Dose: If you miss an appointment for your scheduled dose of Dalbavancin, contact your healthcare provider to reschedule. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed to effectively treat the infection.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about Dalbavancin injection or its use.