Antibiotics · Glycopeptide
Vancomycin
Dose
Loading 25–30 mg/kg IV, then 15–20 mg/kg q8–12h
Mechanism
Inhibits cell wall (binds D-Ala-D-Ala)
Dose adjustment
Per renal function + trough levels (15–20 mg/L target)
Administration
Infuse over ≥60 min (avoid red-man syndrome)
Use
MRSA, C. diff (oral), endocarditis, severe Gram +ve.
Monitoring
Trough level before 3rd–4th dose; U&E; hearing.
Side effects
- • Red-man syndrome
- • Nephrotoxicity
- • Ototoxicity
- • Thrombocytopenia
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
