Antibiotic (Glycopeptide)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Vancomycin is a powerful antibiotic that works by killing serious bacteria that other antibiotics cannot handle. It is usually given through a drip (IV infusion) in a hospital setting and is reserved for severe or stubborn infections.
Binds to D-alanyl-D-alanine residues in bacterial peptidoglycan precursors, inhibiting cell wall cross-linking and synthesis, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. Bactericidal activity is particularly effective against gram-positive organisms, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Clostridioides difficile.
Serious skin infections, bloodstream infections (sepsis), bone infections, heart valve infections (endocarditis), severe diarrhoea caused by C. difficile bacteria, MRSA infections (infections caused by bacteria that resist most common antibiotics)
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Since vancomycin is mostly given in the hospital by nurses or doctors, missed doses are unlikely. If for any reason a dose is skipped, inform your healthcare team immediately so they can adjust your schedule. Do not double up.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
This is a hospital-grade antibiotic, so never buy it from roadside sellers or try to self-administer it at home. Complete the full course your doctor prescribes even if you feel better, as stopping early can create drug-resistant bacteria. Make sure the drip is given slowly, and if you feel sudden flushing, itching, or chest tightness during infusion, alert the nurse immediately.
Aminoglycoside antibiotics like gentamicin increase the risk of kidney damage and hearing loss when used together. NSAIDs (painkillers like ibuprofen and diclofenac) may also increase kidney stress when used with vancomycin. Always tell your doctor about every medication you are taking, including herbal supplements.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Vancomycin with your other drugs?
Vancomycin should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk, so always consult your doctor before use.
Store the unopened powder at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Once mixed with fluid for injection, it should be used promptly or stored as directed by the pharmacist. Keep away from children at all times.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.