Vancomycin, an antibiotic reserved for severe bacterial infections, is available as an oral capsule (Vancocin®) and an intravenous (IV) formulation. When taken orally, vancomycin remains localized within the intestinal tract until eliminated by the body. If it is administered through a vein, vancomycin spreads into the blood within seconds of infusion. Even though both dosage forms have slight variances in side effects due to the different routes of administration, they also have a lot of similarities.
Stomach Problems
Indigestion, nausea, vomiting and stomachaches are bothersome side effects common with vancomycin. These symptoms may occur more commonly with oral vancomycin, since it concentrates mostly in the intestines. The symptoms usually stop once the medication is discontinued.
Kidney Damage
Vancomycin is eliminated through the kidney and can be toxic in prolonged therapy, high doses, the elderly, with co-administration of other kidney-toxic drugs and in patients with compromised kidneys. This is more common with the intravenous form of vancomycin. Physicians and pharmacists usually monitor patients for their kidney function while taking this medication. Vancomycin dosage is decreased at any indication of kidney compromise and side effects.
Hearing Loss
Vancomycin can lead to hearing loss. This is a rare side effect and is more common with the intravenous form. A hearing screening test may be done at onset of treatment to establish baseline hearing levels, and alternative antibiotics are considered in patients with hearing loss.
Hearing problems usually present as a feeling of fullness in the ear and hardness of hearing. Caregivers and patients should be aware of sudden changes in hearing pattern and should notify the doctor immediately.
Decrease in White Blood Cells
Vancomycin can also cause a decrease in white blood cells, though this effect is rare. White blood cells are the body's defense against infections; therefore, reduction in the white blood cell count can increase susceptibility to disease. Depending on the severity of white blood cell count drop, vancomycin may be discontinued and the patient will be treated with drugs that increase white blood cells.
Fevers, Chills and Flushing
If vancomycin IVs are infused too quickly, fever, cold, flushing in the upper parts of the body and changes in heartbeat can sometimes occur. This is referred to as Redman's syndrome due to the "redness" flushing causes. For this reason, vancomycin IVs should be administered slowly based on a prescribed infusion rate. Fevers and chills are also possible with oral vancomycin. Notify the physician or pharmacist if any of these side effects occur.
Breathing Problems
Both forms of vancomycin can cause difficulty breathing, swelling, hives and rashes. These symptoms may be a sign of an allergic reaction and should be reported to your physician immediately, as they could be life threatening.
Others
Other possible side effects include skin eruptions. dizziness, body pains and low blood pressure.
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