glycopeptides side effects FAQ

While less common, the most serious side effects of vancomycin are described below, along with what to do if they happen. Severe Allergic Reactions. Vancomycin can cause allergic reactions, including a specific type of allergic reaction called DRESS. DRESS stands for drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms. It is also sometimes called multiorgan hypersensitivity. This is a reaction that can affect multiple parts of the body, including your liver, kidneys, and heart. Stop taking the medicine and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

Oral Capsule or Liquid. If you miss a dose of oral vancomycin, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses. It is important to complete your prescribed course of oral vancomycin, even if your symptoms get better or go away. This will reduce the risk that future infections are resistant to vancomycin or other similar medicines. Injection. Vancomycin for injection is usually given by a health care provider in a hospital or clinic. Your health care provider will make sure you are receiving vancomycin for injection as scheduled. If you miss an appointment to get your vancomycin dose, call to make another appointment as soon as possible.

If you or someone else has used too much vancomycin, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

There are no known interactions between oral vancomycin and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any of the following before using vancomycin for injection.

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if vancomycin is right for you. In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following. Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

Vancomycin kills certain types of bacteria by blocking their ability to build a cell wall, weakening their cell membrane, and disrupting their ability to create proteins that they need to grow and multiply.

There are no known interactions between vancomycin and foods or drinks. There are no known interactions between vancomycin and alcohol, but heavy drinking can slow your immune response and make it harder for your body to fight infections.

Oral Capsule. Vancomycin capsules should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). The medicine can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Oral Liquid. Vancomycin liquid should be stored in the refrigerator between 36 F to 46 F (2 C to 8 C). Do not freeze. Keep the medicine container tightly closed when you are not using it. Protect the medicine from light. Injection. Injectable vancomycin is usually given by a health care provider in a hospital or clinic. You will not store it at home.

Do not take vancomycin unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Take it as prescribed. Do not share vancomycin with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them. Keep vancomycin out of the reach of children. Since liquid vancomycin should be kept in a refrigerator, take special precautions to keep it away from children who also use the refrigerator. If you are taking liquid vancomycin, shake the medicine container well before measuring your dose and use an accurate measuring device. A household spoon is not an accurate measuring device and may cause you to take the wrong dose. Ask your pharmacist to recommend an appropriate measuring device. Throw away any unused liquid vancomycin after 14 days or if the medicine appears cloudy or seems to have particles or clumps in it. People who are 65 and older can be at greater risk for some side effects from vancomycin. Talk to your health care provider about your risks if you are in this age group.

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The most common side effects of vancomycin are listed below. These side effects may vary depending on the infection being treated and the dosage form being used. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

Vancomycin is an antibiotic that is commonly used for the following infections or conditions caused by certain bacteria.

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take vancomycin.