Vancomycin Injection 5 mg/mL (100 mL) (VANCOMYCIN - INJECTION)

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

Carefully follow the instructions for preparing this medicine before injection.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Protect medicine from light.

Before using, squeeze the bag to check for leaks. If there are any leaks, do not use the medicine because it may not be sterile. Contact your healthcare provider for a replacement dose.

Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Space doses evenly to keep a steady amount of medicine in the body.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Please tell your doctor if you have moderate to severe diarrhea while on this medicine. Do not treat the diarrhea with over-the-counter diarrhea medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• yeast infection of mouth
• vaginal itching or yeast infection

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• back pain
• bleeding or bruising
• chest pain
• confusion
• severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
• ear problems (ringing in the ears, hearing loss)
• feeling of heat or flushing
• fever
• swelling in the neck or throat
• signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
• muscle cramps
• increased urinary frequency
• urinating less often
• blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.