Vancomycin

About vancomycin

Vancomycin is used to treat bacterial infections, particularly infections of the bowel (eg colitis). It works by killing or stopping the growth of the bacteria responsible. The injection is used to treat certain severe infections that are resistant to other antibiotics.

Before taking vancomycin

Before taking vancomycin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you have kidney problems.
• If you have a history of deafness or ear problems.
• If you have ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease or any other condition where the intestines are inflamed.
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take vancomycin

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take vancomycin exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow vancomycin capsules whole with plenty of water.
• Try to take vancomycin at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses and to keep a steady level of vancomycin in your intestines.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of vancomycin. If you stop too soon your infection is likely to return and could be more difficult to treat. A course of treatment is often 7-10 days but your doctor will tell you exactly how many days to take your vancomycin for.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental and emergency treatment, tell your doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking vancomycin.
• If you have any medical tests, tell the person carrying out the test that you are being treated with vancomycin.
• Some people develop thrush after taking a course of antibiotics. If you think you have thrush speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Important: oral contraceptives may be less effective while you are taking vancomycin. In addition to taking the contraceptive pill, use a barrier method of contraception (eg condoms) while you are taking vancomycin and for at least seven days after your course of vancomycin has finished. If these seven days run into a 'pill-free' week, start taking the next packet of contraceptives without leaving a break. If you are taking the type of contraceptive pill that is taken every day or if you need any further advice, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can vancomycin cause problems?

Vancomycin capsules are generally not absorbed into the bloodstream and are therefore unlikely to cause any side-effects. However, if you experience any symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

If you are receiving the injection form of vancomycin, your doctor will talk to you about possible side-effects of the treatment and will be regularly monitoring your progress.

How to store vancomycin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines