Vancomycin Hydrochloride
Vancomycin Hydrochloride is a glycopeptide antibiotic. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. Intravenous administration is required for systemic infections because oral absorption is extremely poor. Oral administration is used exclusively for localized gastrointestinal infections.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be individualized based on body weight, age, renal function, and severity of infection. Therapeutic drug monitoring (serum trough levels) is highly recommended for intravenous therapy.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 15 mg/kg
- Frequency
- Every 12 to 24 hours depending on post-menstrual age
- Tracking Notes
- Commonly used in neonatal settings; requires close monitoring of serum levels and renal function.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 15 mg/kg (approx. 75-105 mg)
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Adjust interval based on serum trough levels and renal clearance.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 15 mg/kg (approx. 120-150 mg)
- Frequency
- Every 8 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor renal function parameters regularly.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 15 mg/kg (approx. 165-225 mg)
- Frequency
- Every 6 to 8 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Infuse slowly over at least 60 minutes to prevent infusion-related reactions (Red Man Syndrome).
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 15 mg/kg (approx. 240-300 mg)
- Frequency
- Every 6 to 8 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure adequate patient hydration during treatment.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 15 mg/kg | Every 12 to 24 hours depending on post-menstrual age | Commonly used in neonatal settings; requires close monitoring of serum levels and renal function. |
| 5-7 kg | 15 mg/kg (approx. 75-105 mg) | Every 8 to 12 hours | Adjust interval based on serum trough levels and renal clearance. |
| 8-10 kg | 15 mg/kg (approx. 120-150 mg) | Every 8 hours | Monitor renal function parameters regularly. |
| 11-15 kg | 15 mg/kg (approx. 165-225 mg) | Every 6 to 8 hours | Infuse slowly over at least 60 minutes to prevent infusion-related reactions (Red Man Syndrome). |
| 16-20 kg | 15 mg/kg (approx. 240-300 mg) | Every 6 to 8 hours | Ensure adequate patient hydration during treatment. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat serious, life-threatening infections caused by susceptible strains of Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Oral formulations are specifically used to treat Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) and enterocolitis.
Generic Name
Vancomycin HydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Vancomycin Hydrochloride is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.