Drug reference
vancomycin
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Anti Bacterial (Non Beta-Lactams)
Mechanism of action
Inhibits cell-wall biosynthesis; blocks glycopeptide polymerization by binding tightly to D-alanyl-D-alanine portion of cell wall precursor
Common side effects
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Back pain
- Hypokalemia
- Abdominal pain
- Peripheral edema
Known interactions (3)
- gentamicin + vancomycin Major
- acyclovir + vancomycin Moderate
- Furosemide + vancomycin Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is vancomycin?
vancomycin belongs to: Anti Bacterial.
How does vancomycin work?
Inhibits cell-wall biosynthesis; blocks glycopeptide polymerization by binding tightly to D-alanyl-D-alanine portion of cell wall precursor
What are the common side effects of vancomycin?
Vomiting, Nausea, Back pain, Hypokalemia, Abdominal pain, Peripheral edema
Which drugs interact with vancomycin?
gentamicin, acyclovir, Furosemide
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.