GENERIC NAME: VANCOMYCIN - INJECTION (vank-oh-MY-sin)
BRAND NAME(S): Lyphocin, Vancocin
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is an antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections.
HOW TO USE: This medication is diluted in fluid and injected slowly into a vein over a 1 to 2 hour period. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by using the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night as prescribed. Continue to use this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea, or vomiting as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Other side effects that have been reported with this medication include headache, trouble sleeping, swollen tongue, ringing in the ears, tingling of the hands or feet, fever, vaginal itching and dizziness. Inform your doctor if these become bothersome. The site where the injection is given may be red and irritated for a few days. Notify your doctor if the irritation continues or becomes worse. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: kidney problems, hearing problems, severe diarrhea, any allergies. Vancomycin should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Vancomycin is excreted into breast milk. Because the effects on a nursing infant are unknown, consult your doctor before you breast-feed.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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