Myocardial Abscess Medication
- Author: Vibhuti N Singh, MD, MPH, FACC, FSCAI; Chief Editor: Burke A Cunha, MD more...
Medication Summary
Even though the main mode of treatment is surgical, patients with myocardial abscess still require antibiotics and adjunct agents for stabilization of hemodynamic status (ie, pressors).
Antibiotics
Class Summary
These agents are used to treat susceptible organisms, especially Staphylococcus species, which are the most common organisms in myocardial abscesses.
Vancomycin (Lyphocin, Vancoled, Vancocin)
Potent antibiotic directed against gram-positive organisms and active against Enterococcus species. Useful in treatment of septicemia and skin structure infections. Indicated for patients who cannot receive or have not responded to penicillins and cephalosporins or those who have infections with resistant staphylococci. For abdominal penetrating injuries, combine with an agent active against enteric flora and/or anaerobes. To avoid toxicity, current recommendation is to assay vancomycin trough levels after third dose drawn 0.5 h prior to next dosing. Use CrCl to adjust dose in patients diagnosed with renal impairment. Used in conjunction with gentamicin for prophylaxis in patients allergic to penicillin who are undergoing GI or GU procedures.
Gatifloxacin (Tequin)
Fluoroquinolone with antimicrobial activity based on ability to inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerases, which are required for replication, transcription, and translation of genetic material. Fluoroquinolones have broad activity against gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic organisms. Differences in chemical structure between quinolones have resulted in altered levels of activity against different bacteria. Altered chemistry in quinolones results in toxicity differences.
Gentamicin (Garamycin)
Aminoglycoside antibiotic for gram-negative coverage. Used in combination with both an agent against gram-positive organisms and one that covers anaerobes.
Not DOC. Consider if penicillins or other less-toxic drugs are contraindicated, when clinically indicated, and in mixed infections caused by susceptible staphylococci and gram-negative organisms.
Dosing regimens are numerous; adjust dose based on CrCl and changes in volume of distribution. May be given IV/IM.
Levofloxacin (Levaquin)
For pseudomonal infections and infections due to multidrug-resistant gram-negative organisms.
Vasopressors
Class Summary
These agents are used to raise blood pressure and improve tissue perfusion in patients with septic shock or hypotension.
Dopamine (Intropin)
Stimulates both adrenergic and dopaminergic receptors. Hemodynamic effect dependent on dose. Lower doses predominantly stimulate dopaminergic receptors, which, in turn, produce renal and mesenteric vasodilation. Cardiac stimulation and renal vasodilation produced by higher doses.
After initiating therapy, increase dose by 1-4 mcg/kg/min q10-30min until optimal response is obtained. More than 50% of patients are maintained satisfactorily on doses < 20 mcg/kg/min.
Anticoagulants
Class Summary
Antithrombin and anticoagulant agents may be needed for prevention of DVT. Anticoagulants are required for stroke prevention after replacement of cardiac valves with mechanical prostheses.
Heparin
Augments activity of antithrombin III and prevents conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin. Does not actively lyse but is able to inhibit further thrombogenesis. Prevents reaccumulation of clot after spontaneous fibrinolysis.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Interferes with hepatic synthesis of vitamin K – dependent coagulation factors. Used for prophylaxis and treatment of DVT, PE, and thromboembolic disorders. Tailor dose to maintain INR in range of 2-3.
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