Reducing the use of vancomycin in preterm infants

Implementing vancomycin-sparing regimens in preterm infants

NIH-funded research Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-11052526

This study is looking at how to use antibiotics better for preterm babies in the NICU by finding ways to use gentler options instead of the stronger antibiotic vancomycin, helping to keep these little ones safer and healthier.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052526 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving antibiotic use in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) for preterm infants, who are often exposed to antibiotics and at risk for side effects. The study aims to implement vancomycin-sparing regimens that encourage the use of narrower spectrum antibiotics as first-line treatments. By developing protocols that guide when vancomycin is necessary, the research seeks to optimize antibiotic stewardship and enhance patient safety. The goal is to reduce the reliance on vancomycin, which is commonly used empirically for suspected infections in these vulnerable infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants born at or before 35 weeks of gestation who are admitted to the NICU.

Not a fit: Patients who are not preterm or those who do not require antibiotic treatment in the NICU may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer antibiotic practices in NICUs, reducing the risk of side effects and antibiotic resistance in preterm infants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that vancomycin-reducing protocols can safely decrease vancomycin use in NICUs, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.