About vancomycin hcl
Glycopeptide antibiotic
Used for
- Treats serious infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA.
- Treats infections when other antibiotics are unsuitable or ineffective.
Usual adult dose
Usually 15–20 mg/kg intravenously every 8–12 hours; dose is adjusted for kidney function and blood levels.
Usual dose in children
Usually 10–15 mg/kg intravenously every 6 hours; dose is adjusted for age, kidney function, and blood levels.
Common side effects
- Infusion reactions, including flushing, itching, or rash
- Kidney injury
- Hearing problems, rarely
- Low blood cell counts with prolonged treatment
Important warnings
- Give by slow intravenous infusion; rapid administration can cause serious reactions.
- Kidney function and vancomycin levels may require monitoring.
- Use carefully with other medicines that can harm the kidneys or hearing.
- This infusion formulation is not for treating diarrhoea caused by C. difficile.
Pregnancy
May be used when needed for serious infections; human pregnancy data are limited.
Breastfeeding
Vancomycin enters breast milk in small amounts and is poorly absorbed orally; monitor for diarrhoea or thrush.
Interactions
- Aminoglycosides and other kidney-toxic medicines may increase kidney injury risk.
- Other medicines that can harm hearing may increase hearing injury risk.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.