Vancomycin is a tricyclic glycopeptide antibiotic originally derived from the organism Streptococcus orientalis. Vancomycin is used to treat and prevent various bacterial infections caused by gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Vancomycin is a medication used in the treatment of serious Gram-positive bacterial infections. It is in the cell wall synthesis inhibitor class of antimicrobial medications. This activity reviews the indications, action, and contraindications for vancomycin as a valuable antimicrobial in treating Gram-positive bacterial infections. This activity will highlight the mechanism of action, adverse event profile, pharmacokinetics, and drug interactions pertinent for members of the interprofessional team in the treatment of patients with clinically significant Gram-positive bacterial infections.

Objectives:

• Describe the mechanism of action of vancomycin.
• Review the therapeutic uses of vancomycin.
• Explain the potential side effects of vancomycin.
• Outline the importance of collaboration and coordination among the interprofessional team to enhance patient care when dosing and monitoring vancomycin therapy.

Descriptions

Vancomycin injection is used to treat infections in many different parts of the body. It is also used in patients with heart valve disease (eg, rheumatic fever) or prosthetic (artificial) heart valves who are allergic to penicillin. Under certain circumstances, vancomycin is also given with other medicines to prevent endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart) in patients who are having dental work done or surgery on the upper respiratory tract (eg, nose or throat).

Vancomycin is used to treat infections caused by bacteria. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. Vancomycin will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.

Vancomycin injection is also used to treat serious infections for which other medicines may not work. However, this medicine may cause some serious side effects, including damage to your hearing and kidneys. These side effects may be more likely to occur in elderly patients. You and your doctor should talk about the benefits this medicine will do as well as the risks associated with receiving it.

Vancomycin is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

• Solution
• Powder for Solution