Vancomycin peak
For vancomycin to be most effective against infections, the concentration of the antibiotic in the body must be carefully monitored.
Vancomycin peak Overview
Reviewed: April 25, 2014
Updated:
Vancomycin is an antibiotic used to treat serious infections. The peak is not as important as the trough when monitoring vancomycin. Lab is drawn about 1 hour after infusion has finished. Generally should be about 5 to 8 times above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC).
Vancomycin peak is measured in micrograms/milliliters (mcg/mL).
The normal range for vancomycin peak is 20-40 mcg/mL.
Technique
Blood draw
Preparation
No preparation needed, but timing of the sample for testing is important.
Follow your doctor's directions.
What the results mean
Peak levels are not routinely obtained. The clinical use of obtaining a serum peak concentration is not clear. Peak concentration is obtained for severe infections requiring high concentrations and/or if patient is not responding to therapy.
