Vancomycin

FDA approved

Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic approved in 1958. It is a key treatment for serious infections caused by MRSA and other resistant Gram-positive bacteria, and, taken by mouth, for C. difficile colitis.

At a glance

Where it acts: Immune & defense
Regulatory status: FDA approvedApproved by the U.S. FDA for at least one medical use.

Mechanism of Action

Vancomycin binds the D-alanyl-D-alanine end of cell wall building blocks in Gram-positive bacteria, blocking cell wall assembly so the bacteria cannot grow and eventually burst.

Typical Dosage (Research)

Prescription-only medicine. Dosing is set by a physician according to the FDA-approved label and the condition being treated.

Side Effects & Risks

Infusion reactions (flushing and itching, sometimes called vancomycin infusion reaction), nausea and kidney changes.

Kidney toxicity, especially with other nephrotoxic drugs; hearing damage; low white cell counts. Blood level monitoring is standard.

Who Uses Vancomycin

Hospitalized patients with MRSA bloodstream, bone, skin or lung infections; patients with C. difficile infection (oral form).