Vancomycin

Category: pharmacological

Aliases: Vancocin

Pharmacological Mechanism

Glycopeptide antibiotic — binds D-Ala-D-Ala terminus of peptidoglycan precursors blocking transpeptidation. Workhorse against MRSA + severe gram-positive infections. IV for systemic; PO for C. difficile colitis (not absorbed). Nephrotoxicity + ototoxicity require trough monitoring.

Half-Life (t½)

IV: 6h

Dosing Guidelines

• IV: Typical 1000mg (Range: 500 - 2000 mg)

Target Organ Systems

• renal
• immune-hematologic