Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Vancocin, Lyphocin, Vancoled
Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, particularly those resistant to other antibiotics like methicillin. It inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death. Vancomycin is typically administered intravenously for systemic infections but can be given orally for intestinal infections like Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
For serious bacterial infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Clostridium difficile infections.
Vancomycin can cause serious kidney damage and hearing loss. Close monitoring of kidney function and hearing is essential during treatment. Rapid infusion can cause a reaction known as "red man syndrome" characterized by flushing, rash, itching, and hypotension.
Outcome:
Increased risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity
Mechanism:
Additive renal and auditory toxicities
Outcome:
Increased risk of bleeding
Mechanism:
Possible alteration of gut flora affecting vitamin K synthesis
Outcome:
Decreased vancomycin absorption (oral)
Mechanism:
Changes in gastric pH
Most likely new formulation: Liposomal vancomycin for improved tissue penetration (Year: 2026, 60% confidence)
Based on increasing resistance patterns, there is a 70% likelihood of new guidelines restricting vancomycin use for specific infections within the next 5 years.
Glycopeptide Antibiotic
Glycopeptide