Vancomycin Hydrochloride: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Vancomycin Hydrochloride

Generic NameVancomycin Hydrochloride

Therapeutic ClassGlycopeptide Antibiotic

Max / 24h2 g IV

Common Dose15–20 mg/kg IV q8-12h; Oral 125–500 mg q6h for C. difficile

PregnancyCategory B – Use if clearly needed

Indications ▼

Serious Gram-positive infections (MRSA, MSSA)

Bacterial endocarditis

Septicemia / bloodstream infections

Bone and joint infections

Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (oral form only)

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to D-alanyl-D-alanine terminus, preventing peptidoglycan cross-linking. Bactericidal against Gram-positive organisms.

Pharmacokinetics: Poor oral absorption; IV administration required for systemic infections. Distribution widely in body fluids and tissues. Eliminated primarily by kidneys; half-life 4–6 hours (normal renal function).

Dosage & Administration ▼

Condition	Recommended Dose	Frequency
Serious systemic infection	15–20 mg/kg IV	Every 8–12 hours (adjust renal function)
Oral for C. difficile	125–500 mg	Every 6 hours

Note: Administer IV infusion over at least 60 minutes; monitor renal function and serum levels in prolonged therapy.

Side Effects ▼

Red man syndrome (flushing, rash)

Nephrotoxicity

Ototoxicity

Hypotension (rapid IV infusion)

Phlebitis at injection site

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to vancomycin

Use with caution in renal impairment

Previous history of ototoxicity

Drug Interaction ▼

Aminoglycosides: increased risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity

Loop diuretics: additive ototoxicity

Other nephrotoxic drugs: monitor renal function

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Category B: Use if benefit outweighs risk

Excretion in breast milk possible; monitor infant for toxicity

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Therapeutic Role: Potent glycopeptide antibiotic for treatment of serious Gram-positive infections, especially MRSA.

Clinical Effectiveness: Effective in bloodstream infections, endocarditis, and complicated infections; oral form effective in C. difficile colitis.

Safety Profile: Generally well tolerated; monitor for nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, and infusion reactions.

Current Research: Focus on optimized dosing regimens, combination therapy, and prevention of resistance.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Report flushing, rash, dizziness, or hearing changes

Ensure adequate hydration during therapy

Take oral vancomycin exactly as prescribed for C. difficile

Regular monitoring of renal function and serum levels during prolonged therapy

Storage & Handling ▼

Store below 25°C, protect from light

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh (Local Brands):