Half dose of TauroLock; Does it work?

Abstract

Introduction: Bacteremia is one of the most important complications in central vein catheter used in hemodialysis. TauroLock is known as an effective catheter lock solution (antimicrobial plus anticoagulant solution) in preventing catheter-related bacteremia (CRB). However, its cost is high and not covered by the most insurance companies. Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of the medication as a half dose for its economic advantages. Patients and Methods: In this clinical trial study, 152 patients were divided into case (n=62) and control groups (n=90). In the case group, for 1 year, TauroLock and heparin were injected into the catheter's lumen (equal dose), but in the control group, only heparin was injected. For detecting bacteremia, blood cultures were obtained. Results: According to the results, there was a significant difference in CRB between the two groups, at the base time, 3, 6 and 12 months after injection of TauroLock (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference in CRB, at the base time, 3, 6 and 12 months, after injection of TauroLock for the case group (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference for the control group (P < 0.05). A positive effect in decreasing CRB was seen in the patients, based on age, sex, BMI, duration of hemodialysis, level of serum albumin, diabetes mellitus history and serum ferritin. Conclusion: The catheter lock solution TauroLock, even in half dose, after each hemodialysis session, could significantly decrease the rate of CRB in hemodialysis patients.