Vancomycin belongs to a class of medications called glycopeptide antibiotics. It kills bacteria by interrupting the integrity of bacterial cell walls.
It is used to treat various bacterial infections. Vancomycin does not work for virus or fungus infections.
Vancomycin is injected through a needle into a vein as directed by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the dosage and frequency depending on your infection.
Severe Staphylococcal infections, susceptible gram-positive infections
Adult
15-20 mg/kg body weight every 12 hours.
Child over 12 years
15-20 mg/kg body weight every 12 hours.
Child 1 month – 12 years
10-15 mg/kg body weight every 6 hours.
Common side effects of Vancomycin include diarrhoea, flushing of the upper body, dizziness, nausea, vertigo, and allergic skin reactions.
Common dosing schedule:
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Vancomycin may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Vancomycin is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Vancomycin in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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