Uses
Vancomycin is used to treat serious bacterial infections. It is an antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
This medication is usually given by injection into a vein. However, the form in vials may also be given by mouth to treat a certain intestinal condition (colitis) that may rarely happen after treatment with antibiotics. This condition causes diarrhea and stomach/abdominal discomfort or pain. When vancomycin is taken by mouth, it stays in the intestines to stop the growth of bacteria that cause these symptoms.
This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.
How To Use
This medication is usually given by injection into a vein as directed by your doctor. Each dose should be injected slowly over at least 1 hour. The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.
If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
If you are using the frozen mixed liquid, thaw the medication at room temperature or in the refrigerator before using. Do not thaw by putting in a water bath or microwave. After thawing, shake well and squeeze the container to check for leaks. Discard the solution if the container leaks. Do not freeze it again after thawing.
If you are taking this medication by mouth, follow your doctor's directions for taking the mixed liquid. This medication must first be mixed with water if it is taken by mouth. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
For the best effect, use this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, use this medication at the same times every day.
Continue to use this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Side Effects
Pain, redness, and tenderness at the injection site may occur. If this medication is injected too fast, an infusion reaction may occur. Tell your doctor promptly if you have symptoms such as itching or flushing of the upper body, dizziness, or muscle/chest pain. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
- hearing problems (such as ringing in the ears, hearing loss)
- signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine)
- easy bleeding/bruising
- vision changes (such as blurred vision, decreased vision)
Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in oral thrush or a new yeast infection. Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge, or other new symptoms.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- fever that doesn't go away
- new or worsening lymph node swelling
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using vancomycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- kidney problems
- hearing problems
- stomach/intestinal problems
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Vancomycin may cause live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) to not work well. Tell your health care professional that you are using vancomycin before having any immunizations/vaccinations.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Children may be at greater risk for severe infusion reactions when this medication is injected too fast. See also Side Effects section for details.
Older adults may be at greater risk for kidney and hearing problems while using this drug.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
A product that may interact with this drug is:
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor tells you to.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney function, vancomycin blood levels, blood cultures, complete blood counts, hearing tests) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Missed Dose
It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
Consult the product instructions or your pharmacist for storage details. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
