Do antihistamines reduce side effects of rapid vancomycin infusion? (Case report)

Abstract

In this case report 8 months old male infant in whom V-P shunt surgery was planned for hydrocephalus is presented. Vancomycin 240 mg was administered accidentally intravenously in 1-2 minutes during the operation. Probably due to diphenhydramine (1 mg/kg) administered before vancomycin infusion no symptoms of 'Red Man Syndrome' as hypotension and maculopapular skin rash occurred. Antihistamines administered before vancomycin infusion may attenuate adverse effects of vancomycin due to histamine release.