WARNING

Dalvance is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. Like any medication, it carries potential risks and side effects. Some common risks associated with Dalvance include:

• Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to Dalvance, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Digestive issues: Dalvance can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
• Liver problems: In rare cases, Dalvance can affect liver function, leading to elevated liver enzymes or liver damage.
• Kidney problems: Dalvance may also impact kidney function, resulting in changes in urine output, frequency, or appearance.
• Clostridium difficile infection: Like many antibiotics, Dalvance can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut, increasing the risk of Clostridium difficile infection, which can cause severe diarrhea and colitis.
• Drug interactions: Dalvance may interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

It’s essential to discuss any potential risks and benefits of Dalvance with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. They can help determine if Dalvance is the right choice for you and monitor for any adverse effects during your course of treatment.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Dalvance (generic name: Dalbavancin) is prescribed primarily to treat certain bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called lipoglycopeptides, which work by stopping the growth of bacteria. Specifically, Dalvance is 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?

Dalvance (dalbavancin) is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. It’s typically administered intravenously (IV) in a healthcare setting. The specific dosing and administration of Dalvance can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection being treated, as well as other individual factors such as the patient’s age, weight, and overall health.

However, it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist carefully. Typically, Dalvance is administered as a single dose over a period of time determined by your healthcare provider. It’s important not to stop the medication early, even if you start feeling better, unless instructed by your healthcare provider.

If you have any questions about how to use Dalvance, including dosing, administration, potential side effects, or interactions with other medications, be sure to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance. They can provide you with the most accurate and personalized information based on your specific situation.

Other uses for this medicine

• Bone and Joint Infections: Due to its long half-life and efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria, Dalvance is being explored for treating osteomyelitis and prosthetic joint infections.
• Endocarditis: There is ongoing research into using Dalvance for endocarditis caused by susceptible organisms.
• Other Gram-positive Infections: It might be considered for various other infections caused by resistant Gram-positive bacteria, especially where long-acting intravenous therapy is advantageous.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be observed when using Defibrotide Injection:

• Allergy Information: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to dalbavancin or other glycopeptide antibiotics. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
• Medical History: Discuss your medical history, especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or a history of gastrointestinal disorders like colitis.
• Kidney Function: Dalvance is excreted through the kidneys, so impaired kidney function can affect the drug’s elimination. Dose adjustments are necessary for patients with severe renal impairment. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be required.
• Concurrent Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. This is to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss with your healthcare provider the potential risks and benefits of using Dalvance.
• Infusion Reactions: Be aware that Dalvance is administered via IV infusion and can cause infusion-related reactions such as flushing, rash, or pain at the injection site. Your healthcare provider will monitor you during the infusion.
• Side Effects: Common side effects of Dalvance include nausea, headache, diarrhea, and reactions at the infusion site. More serious side effects, although rare, should be reported immediately, including severe dizziness, signs of liver problems (such as persistent nausea, vomiting, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine), or signs of a new infection (such as fever, persistent sore throat).
• Follow-up: Ensure you complete the full course of therapy even if symptoms improve earlier. Missing doses or not completing the course can lead to reduced effectiveness and increased bacterial resistance.

Dalvance is a powerful antibiotic with specific indications and potential off-label uses. It requires careful administration and monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and discuss any concerns or side effects you experience during treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Dalvance does not require any specific dietary restrictions or instructions. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support overall health and recovery during antibiotic treatment.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Dalvance is typically administered in a healthcare setting under the supervision of a healthcare provider. If a dose is missed:

• Contact Your Healthcare Provider: Inform your healthcare provider or the medical facility if you realize you have missed a dose. They will provide instructions on the appropriate next steps, which may include rescheduling the missed dose.
• Do Not Self-Administer: Do not attempt to self-administer the missed dose without professional guidance. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Dalvance (dalbavancin) can cause a range of side effects, varying from mild to severe. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Rash
• Pain, redness, or swelling at the site where the medication was administered.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Itching (pruritus)
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling under the skin)

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms can include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing. This requires immediate medical attention.
• Liver Problems: Symptoms can include persistent nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), and dark urine. These symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
• Clostridium difficile-associated Diarrhea (CDAD): Although rare, this serious condition can occur during or after antibiotic treatment. Symptoms include persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, and blood/mucus in your stool. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience these symptoms.
• Injection Site Phlebitis: Inflammation of the vein at the injection site, which may cause pain, redness, and swelling.Conclusion

While Dalvance is generally well-tolerated, it is important to be aware of both common and serious side effects. Reporting any side effects to your healthcare provider helps ensure safe and effective treatment. If you experience any severe or unusual symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

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

Here’s some important information regarding the storage and disposal of Dalvance:

• Storage: Dalvance should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. It should not be frozen. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Unused or expired Dalvance should be disposed of properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on how to dispose of it safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: In case of an overdose or if you suspect an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention immediately by calling your local emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of an overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness.
• Provide Information: Provide healthcare providers with information about the medication ingested, dosage, and any other relevant details.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the administration and dosage of Dalvance.
• Complete Course: Complete the full course of treatment even if you start to feel better before it is finished. Skipping doses or stopping early can lead to treatment failure and antibiotic resistance.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may perform regular monitoring to check your response to Dalvance and to watch for any side effects or complications.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about any medications you are taking, including Dalvance, to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids while receiving Dalvance infusion to help prevent dehydration.
• Report Side Effects: Report any side effects or adverse reactions to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Precautions During Infusion: Be aware of any potential infusion-related reactions during the administration of Dalvance, and inform healthcare providers immediately if you experience any discomfort or adverse effects.

Proper storage, disposal, and awareness of emergency procedures are essential aspects of using Dalvance safely and effectively. Follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider, and seek immediate medical attention in case of emergencies or suspected overdose. Communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare team for optimal management of your condition.