VANCOTEK 500mg I.V. powder infusion solution medication leaflet

J01XA01 • vancomycin • Antiinfectives for systemic use | Other antibacterials | Glycopeptide antibacterials

Vancomycin is an antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Enterococcus spp. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial destruction. Vancomycin is often used in complicated infections such as endocarditis, osteomyelitis, severe pneumonia, and skin and soft tissue infections.

The medication is administered intravenously for systemic infections or orally for intestinal infections such as Clostridioides difficile colitis. The dosage and duration of treatment are adjusted based on the severity of the infection and the patient's renal function.

Common side effects include injection site reactions, skin rashes, and nausea. In rare cases, severe adverse reactions such as red man syndrome, nephrotoxicity, or ototoxicity may occur.

Vancomycin is an essential antibiotic for treating severe bacterial infections, providing an effective option for patients with infections resistant to other antibiotics.