What Is It?: Vancomycin (van-koe-MYE-sin) belongs to the family of medicines called antibiotics. Antibiotics are medicines used in the treatment of infections caused by bacteria. They work by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. Vancomycin will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections. Vancomycin is used to treat infections in many different parts of the body. It is sometimes given with other antibiotics. Vancomycin also is used in patients with heart valve disease (e.g., rheumatic fever) or prosthetic (artificial) heart valves who are allergic to penicillin. Under certain circumstances, this medicine also may be used to prevent endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart) in these patients who are having dental work done or surgery on the upper respiratory tract (for example, nose or throat). Vancomycin also may be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How To Use: To help clear up your infection completely, vancomycin must be given for the full time of treatment, even if you begin to feel better after a few days. Also, this medicine works best when there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep the amount constant, vancomycin must be given on a regular schedule.

Possible Side Effects: Check with your health care professional immediately if any of the following side effects occur:  Infrequent; Change in the frequency of urination or amount of urine;  chills;  coughing;  difficulty in breathing;  drowsiness;  fever;  increased thirst;  loss of appetite;  nausea or vomiting;  sore throat;  weakness . Rare; Abdominal tenderness; abnormal bleeding or bruising;  large blisters on arms, legs, hands, feet, or upper body;  loss of hearing;  ringing or buzzing or a feeling of fullness in the ears;  severe abdominal or stomach cramps and pain;  watery and severe diarrhea, which may also be bloody

Storage:  Keep in the original container. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Capsules and tablets may be stored at room temperature. Some liquids should be stored in the refrigerator (see the prescription label.)  Store all medicines away from excess heat and moisture. Do NOT store in the bathroom.

Note: If you miss a dose give it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give a double dose to make up for the missed one.