About vancomyci n
Glycopeptide antibiotic
Used for
- Treats serious infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including MRSA.
- Oral treatment of Clostridioides difficile infection.
Usual adult dose
IV: usually 15–20 mg/kg every 8–12 hours, adjusted for kidney function and drug levels. Oral C. difficile: 125 mg four times daily for 10 days.
Usual dose in children
IV: usually 10–15 mg/kg every 6 hours, adjusted for kidney function and drug levels. Oral C. difficile: weight-based dosing, maximum 125 mg four times daily.
Common side effects
- Kidney injury
- Infusion-related flushing, itching, or rash
- Nausea
- Low blood counts or hearing problems, rarely
Important warnings
- IV and oral formulations are not interchangeable; oral vancomycin is not absorbed enough for most systemic infections.
- Kidney function and, in many cases, blood levels require monitoring.
- Rapid IV infusion can cause severe flushing and low blood pressure.
- Use only for susceptible bacterial infections; it does not treat viral illnesses.
Pregnancy
May be used when clearly needed; human pregnancy data are limited. Clinicians weigh benefits and risks.
Breastfeeding
Usually compatible; little is expected to enter milk after IV use. Oral doses are poorly absorbed, but infant diarrhea or thrush may occur.
Interactions
- Other medicines that can harm kidneys, such as aminoglycosides or amphotericin, increase kidney-injury risk.
- Other medicines that can damage hearing may increase hearing-related risks.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.