Sometimes, for serious bacterial infections, the antibiotics we usually take don't work. In those cases, doctors use stronger, more specialized antibiotics. Dalbavancin is one such drug, a powerful antibiotic that is injected into a vein. In this article, we'll talk about everything you need to know about this drug.
Simply put, what is Dalbavancin?
Dalbavancin is a medicine used to treat infections caused by certain types of bacteria. It is most commonly used to treat severe infections of the skin and soft tissues.
The most important thing is that this only works for bacterial infections. This medicine will not cure any viral infections like colds and flu.
This medication is available under the brand name DALVANCE. However, your doctor will only prescribe this medication to you after carefully examining your condition and deciding that it is necessary for you.
Things to tell your doctor before starting this medication
It is very important for your doctor to have a complete picture of your health history. Therefore, before starting dalbavancin, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- Bowel problems: If you have had bowel problems in the past, especially a condition like colitis.
- Allergies: If you have previously had an allergic reaction to dalbavancin, or to any other medicine, food, dye, or preservative.
- Pregnancy: If you are currently pregnant, or planning to have a baby in the near future.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother.
It is very important for your safety to tell the doctor without hiding this information.
How do you use this medicine?
This medicine is given as an injection into a vein. Most often, it is given by trained health care staff in a hospital or clinic. However, in rare cases, you may be taught how to give this injection at home.
If you are going to use it at home, you will be taught clearly how to prepare it and how to give it. You should use the exact dosage as prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop the treatment midway, unless the doctor tells you to do so.
What do you do with used needles?
This is very important. If you are using the vaccine at home, never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They should be placed in a special container (sharps container) that is provided. If you don't have one, you can ask your doctor to get one.
Can this medicine be given to children?
Yes, even a newborn baby can be given this medicine under certain special circumstances. But special precautions must be followed. A pediatrician will decide on this.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, take action immediately.
Call the National Poison Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Can it interact with other medications?
Yes, some medications can interact with it. For example, it may affect the effectiveness of birth control pills .
But this list is not complete. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking (not just Western medicines, but also traditional/Sinhala medicines, vitamins, dietary supplements). Also, if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs, you should definitely tell them about it.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Pay attention to symptoms: If your symptoms don't improve, or if they seem to get worse, tell your doctor.
- Diarrhea: This is something to be aware of. You may experience diarrhea while taking this medicine. However , if it lasts for more than two days, or if it becomes severe, do not go to the pharmacy to get medicine on your own. Call your doctor immediately for advice.
What are the possible side effects of the medicine?
Like any medicine, dalbavancin can cause side effects in some people. Let's break these down into two categories.
| Type of side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Severe diarrhea | Watery or bloody diarrhea. |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Nausea and vomiting | Stomach upset or vomiting after taking the medicine. |
| Headache | Mild to moderate headache. |
| Normal diarrhea | Slight bloating. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience any other unusual symptoms, please ask your doctor about them.
Take-Home Message
- Dalbavancin is a powerful antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections. It does not work at all against viral infections.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, allergies, and other medications you are taking.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with anyone else. Complete the treatment as directed by your doctor, for the full duration.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic symptoms (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing) or severe diarrhea.
- If you miss a dose or think you have taken too much, call your doctor, the National Poisons Information Centre, or the ETU immediately.
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