Vancomycin

Brand Names: Vancocin Vancomycin Hydrochloride USP

Prescription Needed: Yes

What is this drug used for?

Vancomycin is an antibiotic that is used intravenously to kill bacteria that cause infections of the skin lungs brain blood heart and bone. It is generally used when other antibiotics are not working or in people who are allergic to penicillin. It can also be taken by mouth to treat an infection of the colon called C. difficile colitis. This is generally used when other antibiotics are not working.

Is there any reason why I shouldn't take this drug?

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to vancomycin. Before taking this medication tell your doctor specifically if you have or have ever had:

  • problems with your kidney
  • problems with hearing
  • side effects to vancomycin in the past

What about possible side effects?

The common side effects that can occur with this medication usually result because of how fast the medication is going into the body and can sometimes be prevented. These side effects include:

  • a decrease in blood pressure
  • a condition called "Red Man Syndrome" which involves redness flushing and a possible rash of the neck face chest and arms
  • Other possible side effects include:
  • itching or rash
  • rarely case reports of conditions called neutropenia (very rare) or thrombocytopenia - call your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained sore throat fever chills other signs of infection increase bruising or bleeding
  • cases of hearing loss - call your doctor if you notice and changes or loss of hearing
  • problems with the kidney
  • irritation and inflammation of the vein (phlebitis)

When the medication is taken by mouth the side effects tend to be minimal since the medication doesn't actually get absorbed into the body. Some people may experience some nausea.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about these or other unusual symptoms while taking this medication ask your doctor and/or pharmacist for more information and advice.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications and herbal/natural products) as they may interact with and/or change the safety or effectiveness of either drug. Tell your doctor specifically if you are taking any of these drugs as these are the most common interactions and he/she may need to make changes or monitor you more closely (this only applies to the medication when given into the vein):

  • gentamicin tobramycin amphotericin B bacitracin cisplatin (may increase your chances for side effects on the kidney)
  • medications for anesthesia
  • warfarin

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your list of medications.

Other information

Lab tests: Your doctor will likely take blood frequently while using this medication to check the levels in the blood and to monitor for possible side effects.

Children: Can be used. Special dosing is required.

Seniors: May take this drug as prescribed. Dose will depend on the age weight and kidney function of the person taking this medication. People who are older generally require lower doses given less often.

Pregnant women: Typically not recommended. May need to be used in special situations.

Women who are nursing: This drug passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor.

People who drive or operate machinery: No known problems.

Overdose: An occasional overdose is not usually cause for concern. However if you experience any unusual symptoms contact your doctor.

Stopping the drug: This medication is generally given in a hospital and will be stopped when the infection has been cleared or other antibiotics are used. If you are taking the medication by mouth do not stop taking it even if you see an improvement in your symptoms since your infection could return.

If you miss a dose: If you are taking this medication by mouth take it as soon as possible unless it is almost time to take the next dose in which case take a single dose when you remember and then skip the next regularly scheduled dose.

Storage conditions: Closed container; cool dry location away from excess moisture (not in the bathroom); direct light always out of reach of children.

Alcohol: If you drink always drink in moderation.

Dietary precautions: None.