How is telavancin given?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Telavancin is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give your first dose and may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.
Telavancin is usually given once every 24 hours for 7 to 21 days. This medicine must be given slowly, and the infusion can take at least 1 hour to complete. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
Telavancin must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) and then further diluted in an IV bag before using it. Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. Do not use if the medicine has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
Your kidney function will need to be checked before, during and after treatment with telavancin.
This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using telavancin.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Telavancin will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.
Store unused vials in a refrigerator.
After mixing the diluent into a vial, you may keep the vial at room temperature for up to 12 hours before you further dilute the mixture in an IV bag and give the injection. If you store the vial in a refrigerator, you must further dilute and use it within 7 days.
The final mixed solution in the IV bag may also be kept frozen for up to 32 days at temperatures between 14 degrees and -22 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees and -30 degrees Celsius).
Each vial (bottle) is for one use only. Throw it away after one use, even if there is still medicine left inside.
Use a needle and syringe only once and then place them in a puncture-proof "sharps" container. Follow state or local laws about how to dispose of this container. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.