VANCOMYCIN - INJECTION

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VANCOMYCIN - INJECTION

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (VAN-koe-MYE-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Vancocin

GENERIC NAME(S): vancomycin HCl

Uses

USES: Vancomycin is used to treat serious bacterial infections. It is an antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medication is usually given by injection into a vein. However, the form in vials may also be given by mouth to treat a certain intestinal condition (colitis) that may rarely happen after treatment with antibiotics. This condition causes diarrhea and stomach/abdominal discomfort or pain. When vancomycin is taken by mouth, it stays in the intestines to stop the growth of bacteria that cause these symptoms. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.


How to use VANCOMYCIN - INJECTION

HOW TO USE: This medication is usually given by injection into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually every 6 to 12 hours. Each dose should be injected slowly over at least 1 hour. The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely. If you are using the frozen mixed liquid, thaw the medication at room temperature or in the refrigerator before using. Do not thaw by putting in a water bath or microwave. After thawing, shake well and squeeze the container to check for leaks. Discard the solution if the container leaks. Do not freeze it again after thawing. If you are taking this medication by mouth, follow your doctor's directions for taking the mixed liquid. This medication must first be mixed with water if it is taken by mouth. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. For the best effect, use this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, use this medication at the same times every day. Continue to use this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain, redness, and tenderness at the injection site may occur. If this medication is injected too fast, a condition known as "red man syndrome" may occur. Tell your doctor promptly if you have symptoms such as flushing of the upper body, dizziness, or muscle pain/spasms of the chest and back. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: hearing problems (such as ringing in the ears, hearing loss), signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), easy bleeding/bruising, vision changes (such as blurred vision, decreased vision). Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in oral thrush or a new yeast infection. Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge, or other new symptoms. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using vancomycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, hearing problems, stomach/intestinal problems. This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana. Vancomycin may cause live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) to not work as well. Do not have any immunizations/vaccinations while using this medication unless your doctor tells you to. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. A product that may interact with this drug is: cidofovir. Although most antibiotics are unlikely to affect hormonal birth control such as pills, patch, or ring, a few antibiotics (such as rifampin, rifabutin) can decrease their effectiveness. This could result in pregnancy. If you use hormonal birth control, ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for VANCOMYCIN - INJECTION

Vancomycin injection is typically used to treat severe bacterial infections, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.

Vancomycin works by inhibiting the growth and spread of bacteria. It does this by interfering with the production of bacterial cell walls, ultimately causing them to weaken and break down.

Vancomycin injection is usually administered intravenously (IV) or sometimes as an infusion over a period of time. It should only be given by healthcare professionals.

Common side effects of vancomycin injection may include redness or pain at the injection site, nausea, vomiting, kidney problems, and rash. It is important to report any severe or unusual side effects to a healthcare provider.

Vancomycin injection is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before using any medication during these periods.

Vancomycin is primarily effective against certain types of gram-positive bacteria. It may not be effective against some gram-negative bacteria or viruses. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate treatment options.

The effectiveness of vancomycin injection varies depending on the specific infection being treated. In some cases, improvements may be noticed within a few days, while in others, treatment may be required for a longer duration.

Yes, vancomycin injection can potentially interact with other medications, including aminoglycosides, nondepolarizing muscle relaxants, and certain anticoagulants. It is important to inform a healthcare provider about all medications being taken to prevent any harmful interactions.

Yes, vancomycin injection can cause serious allergic reactions, although this is rare. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and severe rash. If any of these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention should be sought.

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Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.