Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer: The FAQs provided are based on the manufacturer’s materials. For official guidance, please refer to the manufacturer’s documentation
What are TauroLock™ products?
TauroLock™ products are catheter lock solutions designed for tunnelled and non-tunnelled vascular access and port systems. They prevent catheter-related infections and flow issues, providing comprehensive protection in various medical settings, including dialysis, oncology, parenteral nutrition, and intensive care units (ICUs).
How do TauroLock™ products help prevent catheter-related infections?
TauroLock™ solutions contain taurolidine, a potent antimicrobial agent that offers broad-spectrum protection against bacteria and fungi, including antibiotic-resistant strains like MRSA and VRE. This significantly reduces the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs), ensuring safer use in high-risk environments.
What sets TauroLock™ apart from other catheter lock solutions?
TauroLock™ provides Triple Efficacy—Anti-Occlusion, Anti-Infection, and Anti-Biofilm. The combination of taurolidine, citrate, and heparin (in some formulations) offers superior protection against infections, blockages, and biofilm formation, ensuring catheter integrity. Additionally, TauroLock™ is designed to be both safe and cost-efficient, making it a reliable choice for healthcare professionals.
What are the active ingredients in TauroLock™ products?
TauroLock™ products contain taurolidine as an antimicrobial agent and 4% citrate to maintain catheter patency. Some formulations, such as TauroLock™-HEP100 and TauroLock™-HEP500, also include heparin (100 IU/ml and 500 IU/ml, respectively) for enhanced anticoagulant effects.
Are there specialised formulas for persistent catheter patency issues?
Yes, there are specialised formulations available for patients experiencing more severe occlusion problems. These fibrinolytic formulations help dissolve clots and significantly improve catheter patency, providing effective solutions for maintaining optimal catheter function.
Can TauroLock™ products be used for both short-term and long-term catheter access?
Yes, TauroLock™ solutions are suitable for both short-term and long-term catheter use.
Do TauroLock™ products reduce the need for catheter replacements?
Yes, by preventing infections, biofilm formation, and blockages, TauroLock™ solutions reduce catheter-related complications, minimising the need for frequent replacements and extending catheter lifespan.
Are TauroLock™ products safe for all patient groups, including neonates?
Yes, TauroLock™ products are safe for use in patients of all ages, including neonates. The components used are non-toxic and provide protection without compromising patient safety.
Are there any known side effects of TauroLock™ products?
The 4% citrate content in TauroLock™ can cause mild hypocalcaemic effects, such as a metallic taste, if administered rapidly into the bloodstream. These effects can be minimised by following the manufacturer’s instructions for use regarding slow instillation. Rare side effects may include anaphylactic reactions and bleeding with TauroLock™-HEP100 and TauroLock™-HEP500.
Why is the citrate concentration in TauroLock™ products limited to 4%?
A 4% citrate concentration is recommended by US regulatory authorities and others to ensure safety, as higher concentrations have been linked to severe complications, including:
- Fatalities associated with high citrate content (e.g., 46.7%).
- Transient cardiac arrest due to over-instillation of concentrated solutions (e.g., 30% citrate).
- Embolic events potentially triggered by protein precipitation with high citrate content (e.g., 46.7%).
What happens if TauroLock™ solutions enter the patient’s bloodstream?
If it enters the bloodstream, taurolidine is quickly degraded into taurine, a naturally occurring amino acid.
Is there any risk of antimicrobial resistance with TauroLock™ products?
There is no risk of antimicrobial resistance because taurolidine, the active antimicrobial agent in TauroLock™ products work through a unique mechanism that does not lead to antimicrobial resistance, making it a safe and effective option for long-term use against antibiotic-resistant pathogens like MRSA and VRE.
