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Other antibiotics

Vancomycin

Also sold as: Vancocin

Prescription neededOther antibiotics

Comes as:Drip (infusion)Capsule

Usual adult dose

Other antibiotics

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.

Pregnancy

Category C

A risk to the baby cannot be ruled out. Use only if your doctor says the benefit is greater than the risk.

Check with my other medicines

Always follow your doctor or pharmacistThis page is general information, not a prescription. Do not start, stop or change a medicine on your own.