About vancomycin

Vancomycin is used to a treat a bacterial infection in your bowel caused by Clostridium difficile (C. difficile). Some people have small numbers of these bacteria which live in their bowels, and usually do no harm. This is because the number of C. difficile bacteria living in the gut of healthy people is kept in check by other harmless bacteria that also live in the gut. However, if the number of C. difficile bacteria increases, then it can cause problems. The most common reason why this occurs is due to taking antibiotics. As well as killing the bacteria that are causing an infection, antibiotics also kill many of the harmless bacteria that live in your gut. This allows the number of C. difficile bacteria to increase.

Symptoms of C. difficile infection can range from mild diarrhoea to a life-threatening inflammation of the bowel. No treatment may be needed in mild cases except drinking plenty of fluids. However, treatment with specific antibiotics like vancomycin is needed in more severe cases. Vancomycin works by stopping the growth of C. difficile bacteria.

Before taking vancomycin

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking vancomycin it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• If you have problems with your ears, such as any deafness.
• If you have an inflammatory bowel disorder.
• If you have any problems with the way your kidneys work.
• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, such as herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take vancomycin

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The leaflet will give you more information about vancomycin and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it.
• Take the capsules exactly as your doctor tells you to. It is usual to take one (125 mg) capsule every six hours for 10-14 days. This dose may be increased if your infection is more serious. Your dose will be on the label of the pack of capsules to remind you.
• Try to space your doses out evenly throughout the day, and continue to take the capsules until the course is finished unless you are told to stop. If you stop too soon, your infection may return and could be more difficult to treat.
• You can take the capsules before or after your meals.
• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember and then continue taking the capsules at the usual times. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Drinking plenty of fluids is very important if you have diarrhoea. Your doctor will advise you about how much and what type of fluids you should drink.
• Try to keep any appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress. Your doctor may want to do some blood tests during this treatment.
• You, and those caring for you, need to follow strict hygiene measures. This will help to prevent the spread of infection to others. You should regularly wash your hands thoroughly, especially after each time you have been to the toilet. Your doctor will advise you about any other measures needed.
• If you are having an operation or any medical tests, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking vancomycin.
• This antibiotic may stop the oral typhoid vaccine from working. If you are having any vaccinations, make sure the person treating you knows that you are taking it.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable to take with your other medicines.

Can vancomycin cause problems?

Vancomycin capsules are generally not absorbed into your bloodstream and are therefore unlikely to cause any side-effects. You may be more at risk of side-effects if you have an inflammatory bowel condition.

If, however, you experience any symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

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