GENERIC NAME: VANCOMYCIN - ORAL SOLUTION (vank-oh-MY-sin)
BRAND NAME(S): 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 infections.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed usually three to four times a day for 7 to 10 days. The dose of oral solution may be diluted in 1 ounce of water to improve the taste. For best results, take each dose at evenly spaced intervals around the clock. This will ensure a constant level of medication in your blood. Take this medication for the full time prescribed. Do not stop taking this without your doctor's approval. Stopping therapy too soon may result in a reinfection.
SIDE EFFECTS: Indigestion or stomach ache may occur. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: difficulty hearing, fever, chills. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, stomach or intestinal problems, hearing problems, allergies you may have. Vancomycin should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Because the effects on a nursing infant are not known consult your doctor before you breast feed.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, including: aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin, neomycin), amphotericin B, other antibiotics, live vaccines. If you will be undergoing treatment requiring anesthesia, tell the doctor/dentist you have been using vancomycin Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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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