Vancomin
Generic Name
Vancomycin 250 mg capsule
Manufacturer
Drug International Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| vancomin 250 mg capsule | ৳ 50.00 | ৳ 300.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic primarily used orally to treat Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) and enterocolitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA strains, that are resistant to other antibiotics. It acts locally in the gut due to poor systemic absorption.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For C. difficile-associated diarrhea: 125 mg to 500 mg orally 3 to 4 times daily for 10 to 14 days, depending on severity. For enterocolitis: 500 mg orally 3 to 4 times daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment for elderly patients based on age alone, but consideration for renal function and overall health status is important, especially for those with severe gastrointestinal inflammation that could lead to increased systemic absorption.
Renal_impairment
Since oral vancomycin is minimally absorbed systemically, renal impairment generally does not necessitate dosage adjustment for the treatment of CDAD or enterocolitis. However, if there is significant inflammation in the gut leading to increased absorption, monitor for systemic toxicity.
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food. The capsules should be swallowed whole. For patients unable to swallow capsules, the contents can be emptied into a small amount of water (or other liquid) and administered orally. Do not administer intravenously.
Mechanism of Action
Vancomycin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to the D-Ala-D-Ala terminus of peptidoglycan precursors, thereby preventing the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains. This leads to the disruption of bacterial cell wall integrity and ultimately cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Local therapeutic effect on C. difficile within hours.
Excretion
Mainly excreted unchanged in feces (for oral administration); systemic excretion is primarily renal (glomerular filtration) for absorbed drug.
Half life
Approximately 4-6 hours in adults with normal renal function (systemic absorption is minimal for oral use).
Absorption
Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (less than 10% systemically) when administered orally; primarily acts locally in the gut.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; negligible metabolism for oral administration.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to vancomycin or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to vancomycin.
Drug Interactions
Cholestyramine, Colestipol
May bind vancomycin in the gut, potentially reducing its local efficacy. Administer vancomycin several hours before or after these agents.
Other Ototoxic/Nephrotoxic Drugs (e.g., Aminoglycosides, Amphotericin B, Cisplatin, Cyclosporine)
While systemic absorption of oral vancomycin is minimal, theoretical risk of additive toxicity if significant absorption occurs (e.g., in severe inflammatory bowel disease).
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C. Keep away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Due to minimal systemic absorption from oral administration, systemic toxicity from an oral overdose is highly unlikely. Management is supportive and symptomatic, focusing on gastrointestinal symptoms if present.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Vancomycin is excreted in breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers due to potential effects on the infant's gastrointestinal flora or direct effects.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to vancomycin or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to vancomycin.
Drug Interactions
Cholestyramine, Colestipol
May bind vancomycin in the gut, potentially reducing its local efficacy. Administer vancomycin several hours before or after these agents.
Other Ototoxic/Nephrotoxic Drugs (e.g., Aminoglycosides, Amphotericin B, Cisplatin, Cyclosporine)
While systemic absorption of oral vancomycin is minimal, theoretical risk of additive toxicity if significant absorption occurs (e.g., in severe inflammatory bowel disease).
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C. Keep away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Due to minimal systemic absorption from oral administration, systemic toxicity from an oral overdose is highly unlikely. Management is supportive and symptomatic, focusing on gastrointestinal symptoms if present.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Vancomycin is excreted in breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers due to potential effects on the infant's gastrointestinal flora or direct effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on manufacturer specifications.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Clinical trials for vancomycin have established its efficacy and safety for indicated uses. Ongoing research explores optimized dosing strategies and new formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- Generally not required for oral use due to minimal systemic absorption.
- For severe cases of CDAD, monitoring stool for C. difficile toxin may be done to assess treatment efficacy.
Doctor Notes
- Confirm diagnosis of C. difficile infection (CDI) before initiating oral vancomycin.
- Oral vancomycin is not effective for systemic infections.
- Monitor for clinical improvement and resolution of symptoms.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
- Report any new or worsening symptoms, especially severe diarrhea or allergic reactions.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Vancomycin 250 mg capsule is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery, as systemic absorption is minimal and central nervous system effects are not expected.
Lifestyle Advice
- Practice good hand hygiene to prevent the spread of C. difficile.
- Stay well-hydrated, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
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International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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