Red man syndrome is an adverse reaction associated with the infusion of which antibiotic?

Red man syndrome is an adverse reaction associated with the infusion of which antibiotic?

• A. Clindamycin
• B. Vancomycin
• C. Aztreonam
• D. Ampicillin

Answer: (B)

Red man syndrome is a rate- and histamine-mediated reaction to intravenous vancomycin. It shows up as flushing, pruritus, and sometimes hypotension, especially when the drug is infused rapidly. It's not a true IgE-mediated allergy, and prevention focuses on slowing the infusion (typically at least 60 minutes for standard doses) and, if needed, administering an antihistamine. The other antibiotics listed do not typically cause this infusion-related reaction.

Red man syndrome is a rate- and histamine-mediated reaction to intravenous vancomycin. It shows up as flushing, pruritus, and sometimes hypotension, especially when the drug is infused rapidly. It's not a true IgE-mediated allergy, and prevention focuses on slowing the infusion (typically at least 60 minutes for standard doses) and, if needed, administering an antihistamine. The other antibiotics listed do not typically cause this infusion-related reaction.