Vancomycin, available under the brand names Vancocin and Firvanq, is a potent antibiotic used to combat severe bacterial infections. It falls under the drug class known as glycopeptide antibiotics. Vancomycin works by inhibiting the growth and spread of harmful bacteria in the body.

Please note that vancomycin is available by prescription and must be administered under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Vancomycin is primarily prescribed to treat severe bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other resistant strains. These infections can affect various parts of the body, including the bloodstream, bones, lungs, heart, and skin.

Vancomycin is also regularly prescribed to treat Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (C Diff), a form of severe diarrhea caused by a bacterial infection.

Vancomycin is often used when other antibiotics prove ineffective against resistant bacteria.

While using vancomycin, some individuals may experience side effects, although not everyone will.

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Headache
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Gas
  
• Low potassium levels
  
  

More severe side effects are less common but can include:

• Allergic reactions (e.g., hives, itching, skin rash, swelling, severe dizziness)
  
• Hearing loss (especially with high doses or prolonged use)
  
• Kidney problems (signs may include changes in urine output and color)
  
• Blood disorders (e.g., decreased platelets, decreased white blood cells)
  
• Chest pain
  
• Infusion reactions
  
• Severe skin rashes, lesions, or blisters
  
• Clostridioides difficile-associated disease
  
  

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience any of these side effects or have concerns about taking this medication.

Before starting treatment with vancomycin, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with vancomycin.

Additionally, let your healthcare provider know if you have or have had:

• Kidney problems
  
• Hearing problems
  
• Any form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  
• Ulcerative colitis
  
• Allergies to vancomycin or other antibiotics
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using vancomycin to assess potential risks and benefits.

The dosage and administration of vancomycin can vary depending on the specific infection, the individual's age, weight, and kidney function. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment for your condition.

Vancomycin can be administered intravenously (IV) or orally. Following your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosing and any other recommendations related to taking vancomycin is crucial. Report any side effects you experience while taking this medication.

Do not discontinue or increase your vancomycin dosage without consulting your doctor first. Take the full course of treatment, even if you start to feel better. Bacterial infections can recur if not treated completely.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of vancomycin.

Store vancomycin as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Proper storage is essential to maintain the medication's effectiveness. Typically, vancomycin should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Keep the medication out of the reach of children and ensure that the container is tightly closed.

Vancomycin is available by prescription only. A licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this medication.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can assess your eligibility and prescribe vancomycin if it's appropriate for your medical condition and needs. You can arrange for pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether vancomycin might be right for you.

Providers on Sesame will not prescribe controlled substances.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment.