Vancomycin
Also sold as: Vancocin
Prescription neededOther antibiotics
Comes as:Drip (infusion)Capsule
Usual adult dose
Dose is set by your doctor. Given slowly into a vein in hospital, with blood tests to check levels. Capsules by mouth (125 mg four times a day) are used only for a serious bowel infection.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- pain or swelling at the drip site
- nausea
- flushing and itching if given too fast
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- hearing loss
- reduced urine (kidney damage)
- severe skin rash
- severe allergic reaction
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Allergy to vancomycin
- Kidney disease (needs dose change and blood tests)
- Hearing problems (use with caution)
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Serious3 medicinesDo not take these together unless your doctor says so.
- Amikacin
Together they raise the risk of kidney damage; kidney tests are needed.
- Gentamicin
Together they raise the risk of kidney damage; kidney tests are needed.
- Streptomycin
Together they raise the risk of kidney damage.