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Vancomycin

Brand: Vancocin

Glycopeptide antibioticUsed for: Serious gram-positive infections; oral form for C. difficileAnti-Infectives

No boxed warning on the current FDA label.

Caution
Vancomycin infusion reaction (flushing, rash) when run too fast, and kidney and hearing toxicity; trough levels guide IV dosing.
Storage
Reconstituted oral solution: refrigerate and discard after 14 days; IV vials reconstituted per label and refrigerated.

Common side effects

  • Infusion-related flushing
  • Kidney injury
  • Hearing changes
  • Low platelet count

Key interactions

  • Additive kidney toxicity with aminoglycosides and NSAIDs
  • Additive hearing risk with loop diuretics

Counseling points

  • Infusion-related flushing of the face and upper body means it was run too fast. Slowing the infusion prevents it
  • Blood levels (AUC or trough) guide IV dosing
  • Report hearing changes or reduced urine output
  • The oral form treats C. difficile and is not absorbed
We ask 7 questions about Vancomycin.Practice Vancomycin →Test yourself on medications like Vancomycin.Practice Medications →
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High-yield study aid for exam prep, not a substitute for the package insert or a pharmacist’s dispensing reference.