Vancocin

What is it?

An antibiotic glycopeptide preparation available as powder in vials for reconstitution and injection in 2 strerights, containing 500mg and lg of vancomycin (as hydrochloride). Also, VANCOCIN MATRIGEL available as capsules in 2 strengths, both containing vancomycin as hydrochloride; peach/blue contain 125mg coded Lilly 3125; grey/blue containing 250mg coded Lilly 3126.

Medical Uses

Injection, potentially fatal infections caused by staphylococci which are resistant to other antibiotics. Vancocin Matrigel, staphylococcal enterocolitis and pseudomembranous colitis.

Dosage

Adults, injection 500mg every 6 hours or 1g every 12 hours given by slow intravenous infusion over 1 hour. Children, 10mg per kg of body weight by slow intravenous infusion over 1 hour at 6 hourly intervals. Vancocin Matrigel, adults, 500mg each day for 7 to 10 days in divided doses with a daily maximum of 2g. Children, 40mg per kg of body weight for 7 to 10 days in 3 or 4 divided doses with a daily maximum of Zg.

Special Care

Elderly, pregnancy, patients with existing loss of hearing, impaired kidney function. Blood, kidney function and hearing should be carefully monitored during the course of treatment.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Drugs with toxic effects on central nervous system or kidneys, anaesthetics.

Known Side Effects

Chills, rashes, fever, nausea, allergic reactions, phlebitis, reduction in number of some white blood cells and rise in number of eosinophils, toxic effects on kidneys and organs of hearing and balance. Anaphylactoid allergic reactions, flushing, severe pain at injection site, with infusion. In the event of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, death of epidermal skin cells, bullous dermatosis (skin disorder), discontinue drug - specialist evaluation required before treatment can be resumed.