What is Defencath prescribed for?
Defencath is prescribed to reduce the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections in adults with kidney failure receiving chronic hemodialysis through a central venous catheter.
What is Defencath and what does it do?
Defencath, pronounced de fen’ kath, (generic name: taurolidine, heparin), is made to prevent infections and blood clots in a central venous catheter.
A central venous catheter is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into a large vein in the body, usually in the neck, chest, or groin. It is used to deliver medications, fluids, nutrients, or to draw blood for testing.
These tubes are used in adults who need hemodialysis, a treatment for kidney failure that helps clean the blood.
How does Defencath work?
Defencath uses taurolidine to kill harmful bacteria by breaking down their protective outer walls, stopping them from growing and causing infections.
It also contains heparin, a substance that helps keep blood flowing smoothly by preventing it from clotting inside the catheter.
This dual action helps ensure the catheter stays clean and functional, reducing the risk of complications during dialysis.
What did the research discover?
The research behind Defencath’s approval demonstrated its effectiveness in preventing bloodstream infections for patients using catheters during hemodialysis.
By killing bacteria and preventing blood clots at the catheter site, Defencath significantly lowered the incidence of these infections compared to standard treatments.
This is especially important as it helps ensure safer and more effective dialysis sessions without the complications of infections, improving patient care and reducing the need for additional medical interventions.
What are some of the side effects?
The side effects listed are from the product manufacturer. As health scientists, we share this information to keep you informed without causing undue worry. Many side effects diminish over time, and not all patients experience them. If prescribed medication, take it as directed and consult your healthcare professional if you have any concerning side effects.
- Potential malfunction of the hemodialysis catheter
- Hemorrhage or bleeding complications
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Musculoskeletal chest pain
- Thrombocytopenia (a low level of platelets, which could increase bleeding risk)
What are the dosage recommendations and how is it prescribed?
Defencath should be instilled into the catheter lumens (the hollow part of the catheter) at the end of each hemodialysis session.
Depending on the volume of the catheter, either a 3 mL or 5 mL single-dose vial is used. The solution should then be aspirated and discarded before the next dialysis session begins.
It is critical not to use Defencath for any purpose other than as a catheter lock solution.
Source:
- Highlights of Prescribing Information for Defencath. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/214520s000lbl.pdf. Accessed 18 July 2024.
- Drug Trials Snapshots: DEFENCATH. FDA. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/development-approval-process-drugs/drug-trials-snapshots-defencath. Accessed 18 July 2024.
