Red Man Syndrome: Which Antibacterial Agent Causes It? (Vancomycin)

5. Which antibacterial agent may cause red man syndrome?

Amoxicillin

Cephalexin

Vancomycin

Cefazolin

Rationale

Vancomycin is a glycopeptide of the cell wall synthesis inhibitor classification. It is known to cause red man syndrome (with rash and redness of the face, neck, upper chest, upper back, and arms). This is related to the infusion rate of vancomycin. While amoxicillin, cephalexin, and cefazolin are also cell wall synthesis inhibitors and may cause allergic reactions, they do not present in the same way as red man syndrome.

p93

Which antibacterial agent may cause red man syndrome?