Vancomycin
Injection, Solution · Intravenous
Uses
Vancomycin Injection is a glycopeptide antibacterial indicated in adult and pediatric patients (1 month and older) for the treatment of: Septicemia ( 1.1 ) Infective Endocarditis ( 1.2 ) Skin and Skin Structure Infections ( 1.3 ) Bone Infections ( 1.4 ) Lower Respiratory Tract Infections ( 1.5 ) To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Vancomycin Injection and other antibacterial drugs, Vancomycin Injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. ( 1.6 ) 1.1 Septicemia Vancomycin Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (1 month and older) for the treatment of septicemia due to: Susceptible isolates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and coagulase negative staphylococci. Methicillin-susceptible staphylococci in penicillin-allergic patients, or those patients who cannot receive or who have failed to respond to other drugs, including penicillins or cephalosporins. 1.2 Infective Endocarditis Vancomycin Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (1 month and older) for the treatment of infective endocarditis due to: Susceptible isolates of MRSA. Viridans group streptococci Streptococcus gallolyticus (previously known as Streptococcus bovis ), Enterococcus species and Corynebacterium species. For enterococcal endocarditis, use Vancomycin Injection in combination with an aminoglycoside. Methicillin-susceptible staphylococci in penicillin-allergic patients, or those patients who cannot receive or who have failed to respond to other drugs, including penicillins or cephalosporins. Vancomycin Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (1 month and older) for the treatment of early-onset prosthetic valve endocarditis caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis in combination with rifampin and an aminoglycoside. 1.3 Skin and Skin Structure Infections Vancomycin Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (1 month and older) for the treatment of skin and skin structure infections due to: Susceptible isolates of MRSA and coagulase negative staphylococci. Methicillin-susceptible staphylococci in penicillin-allergic patients, or those patients who cannot receive or who have failed to respond to other drugs, including penicillins or cephalosporins. 1.4 Bone Infections Vancomycin Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (1 month and older) for the treatment of bone infections due to: Susceptible isolates of MRSA and coagulase negative staphylococci. Methicillin-susceptible staphylococci in penicillin-allergic patients, or those patients who cannot receive or who have failed to respond to other drugs, including penicillins or cephalosporins. 1.5 Lower Respiratory Tract Infections Vancomycin Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (1 month and older) for the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections due to: Susceptible isolates of MRSA Methicillin-susceptible staphylococci in penicillin-allergic patients, or those patients who cannot receive or who have failed to respond to other drugs, including penicillins or cephalosporins. 1.6 Usage To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Vancomycin Injection and other antibacterial drugs, Vancomycin Injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.
Dosage and administration
Use this formulation of Vancomycin Injection only in patients who require the entire (500 mg, 750 mg, 1 g, 1.25 g, 1.5 g, 1.75 g or 2 g) dose and not any fraction thereof. ( 2.1 ) For intravenous use only. Do Not administer orally. Administer Vancomycin Injection by intravenous infusion over 60 minutes or greater to reduce the risk of infusion reactions ( 2.1 ) Adult Patients: 2 g divided either as 0.5 grams (g) every 6 hours or 1 g every 12 hours ( 2.2 ) Pediatric Patients (1 Month and Older): 10 mg/kg per dose given every 6 hours ( 2.3 ) Patients with Renal Impairment: See full prescribing information for recommended doses in patients with renal impairment ( 2.4 ) See full prescribing information for further important administration and preparation instructions ( 2.1 , 2.5 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions Obtain a pregnancy test in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating treatment with Vancomycin Injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , and Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ]. Use this formulation of Vancomycin Injection only in patients who require the entire (500 mg, 750 mg, 1 g, 1.25 g, 1.5 g, 1.75 g or 2 g) dose and not any fraction thereof. Vancomycin Injection in transparent single-dose flexible bags are intended for intravenous use only. Do NOT administer orally. To reduce the risk of infusion related adverse reactions, administer Vancomycin Injection by intravenous infusion over 60 minutes or greater [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . An infusion rate of 10 mg/min or less is associated with fewer infusion-related events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Infusion related events may occur, however, at any rate or concentration. Drug additives should not be made to this solution. Vancomycin Injection concentrations of no more than 5 mg/mL are recommended in adults [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ] . See also age-specific recommendations [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ] . Administer Vancomycin Injection prior to intravenous anesthetic agents to reduce the risk of infusion related adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Administer Vancomycin Injection by a secure intravenous route of administration to avoid local irritation and phlebitis reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] . 2.2 Dosage in Adult Patients with Normal Renal Function The usual daily intravenous dose is 2 g divided either as 500 mg every 6 hours or 1 g every 12 hours. Administer each dose by intravenous infusion over a period of 60 minutes or greater. Other patient factors, such as age or obesity, may call for modification of the usual intravenous daily dose. The initial daily dose should be no less than 15 mg/kg. 2.3 Dosage in Pediatric Patients (1 Month and Older) with Normal Renal Function Use this formulation of Vancomycin Injection only in pediatric patients (1 month and older) who require the entire dose (500 mg, 750 mg, 1 g, 1.25 g, 1.5 g, 1.75 g or 2 g) of this single-dose flexible bag and not any fraction of it [see Dosage Forms and Strengths (3) ]. The usual intravenous dosage of vancomycin is 10 mg/kg per dose given every 6 hours. Each dose should be administered over a period of at least 60 minutes. Close monitoring of serum concentrations of vancomycin may be warranted in these patients. 2.4 Dosage in Patients with Renal Impairment Dosage adjustment must be made in patients with renal impairment. The initial dose should be no less than 15 mg/kg in patients with any degree of renal impairment. In the elderly, greater dosage reductions than expected may be necessary because of decreased renal function. Measure trough vancomycin serum concentrations to guide therapy, especially in seriously ill patients with changing renal function. For functionally anephric patients, an initial dose of 15 mg/kg of body weight should be given to achieve prompt therapeutic serum concentration. A dose of 1.9 mg/kg/24 h should be given after the initial dose of 15 mg/kg. 2.5 Directions for Use of Vancomycin Injection and Storage Instructions Vancomycin Injection in transparent single-dose flexible bag is for intravenous administration only. Vancomycin Injection is room temperature stable, ready-to-use drug product. Preparation for Intravenous Administration: Remove the flexible bag from aluminum overpouch. Check for minute leaks by squeezing the bag firmly. If leaks are detected, discard solution because sterility may be impaired. Leaks may be more readily detected by wrapping the bag with blotting paper or a tissue before squeezing. Do not add supplemental medication. Visually inspect the flexible bag. If the outlet port protector is damaged, detached, or not present, discard the flexible bag as solution path sterility may be impaired. If after visual inspection the solution is cloudy or if an insoluble precipitate is noted or if any seals are not intact, the flexible bag should be discarded. The solution in the flexible bag remains chemically stable for 28 days at room temperature (up to 25°C/77°F) after removal from the aluminum overpouch. Discard unused drug. Suspend the flexible bag from eyelet support. Remove protector from outlet port at bottom of flexible bag. Attach administration set. Refer to complete directions accompanying set. Use sterile equipment. Do NOT use flexible bags in series connections. Such use could result in an embolism due to residual air being drawn from the primary container before administration of the fluid from the secondary container is complete. 2.6 Incompatibilities for Intravenous Use Vancomycin solution has a low pH and may cause chemical or physical instability when it is mixed with other compounds. Mixtures of solutions of vancomycin and beta-lactam antibacterial drugs have been shown to be physically incompatible. The likelihood of precipitation increases with higher concentrations of vancomycin.
Dosage forms and strengths
Vancomycin Injection, USP is a ready to use clear, colorless to light brown solution in single-dose flexible bags containing 500 mg vancomycin in 100 mL, 750 mg vancomycin in 150 mL, 1 g vancomycin in 200 mL, 1.25 g vancomycin in 250 mL, 1.5 g vancomycin in 300 mL, 1.75 g vancomycin in 350 mL and 2 g vancomycin in 400 mL of liquid [see Description (11) ] . The flexible bags are supplied in sealed aluminum overpouches. Vancomycin Injection, USP: Single-dose flexible bags containing 500 mg vancomycin in 100 mL, 750 mg vancomycin in 150 mL, 1 g vancomycin in 200 mL, 1.25 g vancomycin in 250 mL, 1.5 g vancomycin in 300 mL, 1.75 g vancomycin in 350 mL and 2 g vancomycin in 400 mL of liquid. ( 3 )
Contraindications
Vancomycin Injection is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to vancomycin. Hypersensitivity to vancomycin ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
Infusion Reactions : Hypotension, including shock and cardiac arrest, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, muscular and chest pain and "red man syndrome" which manifests as pruritus and erythema that involves the face, neck and upper torso may occur with rapid intravenous administration. To reduce the risk of infusion reactions, administer Vancomycin Injection over a period of 60 minutes or greater and also prior to intravenous anesthetic agents. ( 2.1 , 5.2 ) Nephrotoxicity : Systemic vancomycin exposure may result in acute kidney injury (AKI) including acute renal failure, mainly due to interstitial nephritis or less commonly acute tubular necrosis. Monitor serum vancomycin concentrations and renal function. ( 5.3 ) Ototoxicity : Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin. Monitor for signs and symptoms of ototoxicity during therapy. Monitor serum vancomycin concentrations and renal function. Assessment of auditory function may be appropriate in some instances. ( 5.4 ) Severe Dermatologic Reactions : Discontinue Vancomycin Injection at the first appearance of skin rashes, mucosal lesions, or blisters. ( 5.5 ) Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea : Evaluate patients if diarrhea occurs. ( 5.6 ). Neutropenia : Periodically monitor leukocyte count. ( 5.8 ) Phlebitis : To reduce the risk of local irritation and phlebitis administer Vancomycin Injection by a secure intravenous route of administration. ( 5.9 ) Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria : Prescribing Vancomycin Injection in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug resistant bacteria. ( 5.10 ) 5.1 Potential Risk of Exposure to Excipients During the First or Second Trimester of Pregnancy If use of vancomycin is needed during the first or second trimester of pregnancy, use other available formulations of vancomycin. This formulation of Vancomycin Injection contains the excipients polyethylene glycol (PEG 400) and N-acetyl D-alanine (NADA). In a rabbit reproduction study, fetal spinal malformations occurred when the excipient PEG 400 was administered at dose exposures approximately 8 times the exposure at the maximum daily human dose. In a separate rabbit reproduction study, fetal spinal and cardiovascular malformations occurred when the excipient NADA was administered at dose exposures approximately 32 times the exposure at the maximum daily human dose. The active ingredient vancomycin is not known to be associated with embryo-fetal toxicity [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . 5.2 Infusion Reactions Hypotension, including shock and cardiac arrest, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, muscular and chest pain may occur with rapid Vancomycin Injection administration. The reactions may be more severe in younger patients, particularly children, and in patients receiving concomitant muscle relaxant anesthetics. Rapid intravenous administration of Vancomycin Injection may also be associated with "red man syndrome", which manifests as pruritus and erythema that involves the face, neck and upper torso. Infusion-related adverse reactions are related to both the concentration and the rate of administration of vancomycin. Infusion-related adverse reactions may occur, however, at any rate or concentration. Administer Vancomycin Injection over a period of 60 minutes or greater to reduce the risk of infusion-related adverse reactions. In selected patients in need of fluid restriction, a concentration up to 10 mg/mL may be used; use of such higher concentrations may increase the risk of infusion-related adverse reactions. Administer prior to intravenous anesthetic agents when feasible. Stop the infusion if a reaction occurs. 5.3 Nephrotoxicity Vancomycin Injection can result in acute kidney injury (AKI), including acute renal failure, mainly due to interstitial nephritis or less commonly acute tubular necrosis. AKI is manifested by increasing blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Cr). The risk of AKI increases with higher vancomycin serum levels, prolonged exposure, concomitant administration of other nephrotoxic drugs, concomitant administration of piperacillin-tazobactam [see Drug Interactions (7.2) ] , volume depletion, pre-existing renal impairment and in critically ill patients and patients with co-morbid conditions that predispose to renal impairment. Monitor serum vancomycin concentrations and renal function in all patients receiving Vancomycin Injection. More frequent monitoring is recommended in patients with comorbidities that predispose to impairment in renal function or are concomitantly receiving other nephrotoxic drugs, in critically ill patients, in patients with changing renal function, and in patients requiring higher therapeutic vancomycin levels. If acute kidney injury occurs, discontinue Vancomycin Injection or reduce the dose. 5.4 Ototoxicity Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin. It may be transient or permanent. Ototoxicity manifests as tinnitus, hearing loss, dizziness or vertigo. The risk is higher in older patients, patients who are receiving higher doses, who have an underlying hearing loss, who are receiving concomitant therapy with another ototoxic agent, such as an aminoglycoside or who have underlying renal impairment. Monitor for signs and symptoms of ototoxicity during therapy. Monitor serum vancomycin concentrations and renal function in all patients receiving parenteral vancomycin. Discontinue Vancomycin Injection if ototoxicity occurs. Dosage of Vancomycin Injection must be adjusted for patients with renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ] . Serial tests of auditory function may be helpful in order to minimize the risk of ototoxicity.
Side effects
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Infusion Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Nephrotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Ototoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Severe Dermatologic Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Neutropenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] The common adverse reactions are anaphylaxis, "red man syndrome", acute kidney injury, hearing loss, neutropenia. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA, LLC at 1-833-295-6953 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The following adverse reactions associated with the use of vancomycin were identified in clinical trials: Immune System Disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and "red man syndrome" [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Erythema (especially of the face, neck and upper torso) and pruritus which are manifestations of rashes including exfoliative dermatitis. Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), Linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] . Renal and Urinary Disorders: Acute kidney injury and interstitial nephritis Ear and Labyrinth Disorders: Tinnitus, hearing loss, vertigo Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: Agranulocytosis, neutropenia, pancytopenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, eosinophilia Gastrointestinal Disorders: Pseudomembranous colitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Cardiac Disorders: Cardiac arrest, chest pain General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: General discomfort, fever, chills, phlebitis, injection site irritation, injection site pain and necrosis following intramuscular injection, chemical peritonitis following intraperitoneal administration (Vancomycin Injection is not approved for intramuscular and intraperitoneal administration) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Laboratory Abnormalities: Elevated blood urea nitrogen, elevated serum creatinine Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: Muscle pain Nervous System Disorders: Dizziness Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders: Wheezing, dyspnea Vascular Disorders: Hypotension, shock, vasculitis 6.2 Post Marketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postmarketing use of vancomycin. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] .
Drug interactions
Anesthetic Agents : Concomitant administration of vancomycin and anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing. ( 2.1 , 7.1 ) Piperacillin/Tazobactam : Increased incidence of acute kidney injury in patients receiving concomitant piperacillin/tazobactam and vancomycin as compared to vancomycin alone. Monitor kidney function in patients. ( 7.2 ) 7.1 Anesthetic Agents Concomitant administration of vancomycin and anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . 7.2 Piperacillin-Tazobactam Studies have detected an increased incidence of acute kidney injury in patients administered concomitant piperacillin/tazobactam and vancomycin as compared to vancomycin alone. Monitor kidney function in patients receiving concomitant piperacillin/tazobactam and vancomycin. No pharmacokinetic interactions have been noted between piperacillin/tazobactam and vancomycin. 7.3 Ototoxic and/or Nephrotoxic Drugs Concurrent and/or sequential systemic or topical use of other potentially neurotoxic and/or nephrotoxic drugs requires more frequent monitoring of renal function.
Use in specific populations
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary This formulation of Vancomycin Injection is not recommended for use during the first or second trimester of pregnancy because it contains the excipients, PEG 400 and NADA, which caused fetal malformations in animal reproduction studies (see Data ) . Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to the fetus. If therapy with Vancomycin Injection is needed during the first or second trimester of pregnancy, use other available formulations of vancomycin, free of PEG 400 and NADA. The available data on use of this formulation of Vancomycin Injection (with the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) in pregnant women are insufficient to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Available published data on vancomycin (without the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy related outcomes (see Data ) . There are no available data on first trimester use of vancomycin in pregnant women to assess the risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Vancomycin alone did not show adverse developmental effects when administered intravenously to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses less than or equal to the recommended maximum human dose based on body surface area (see Data ) . Reproduction studies in rabbits with intravenous doses of PEG 400 at approximately 8 times the maximum daily human dose based on systemic exposures of PEG 400 during organogenesis resulted in fetal spinal malformations. Reproduction studies in rabbits and rats using intravenous doses of NADA at approximately 32 and 20 times the maximum daily human dose, respectively, based on systemic exposures of NADA resulted in maternal toxicity and fetal spinal and cardiovascular malformations in rabbits, and maternal toxicity with no adverse embryo-fetal effects in rats. Vancomycin alone did not show adverse developmental effects when administered intravenously to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses less than or equal to the recommended maximum human dose based on body surface area (see Data ) . All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Human Data Available data from postmarketing cases on use of this formulation of vancomycin injection (with the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) in pregnant women are insufficient to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or infant outcomes. There are no available data on first trimester use of vancomycin (without the excipients PEG 400 and NADA); however, available published data on use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy related outcomes. A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of 10 pregnant intravenous drug users treated with vancomycin (formulation did not include the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) for suspected or documented methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 uninfected non-intravenous drug-dependent patients, and 10 uninfected intravenous drug-dependent patients who served as substance abuse controls. No infant in the vancomycin exposed group had abnormal sensorineural hearing at 3 months of age or nephrotoxicity. A published prospective study assessed outcomes in 55 pregnant women with a positive Group B streptococcus (GBS) culture and a high-risk penicillin allergy with resistance to clindamycin or unknown sensitivity who were administered vancomycin (formulation did not include the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) at the time of delivery. Vancomycin dosing ranged from the standard 1 g intravenously every 12 hours to 20 mg/kg intravenous every 8 hours (maximum individual dose 2 g). No major adverse reactions were recorded either in the mothers or their newborns. None of the newborns had sensorineural hearing loss. Neonatal renal function was not examined, but all of the newborns were discharged in good condition. Animal Data Vancomycin did not cause fetal malformations when administered during organogenesis to pregnant rats (gestation days 6 to 15) and rabbits (gestation days 6 to 18) at the equivalent recommended maximum human dose (based on body surface area comparisons) of 200 mg/kg/day IV to rats or 120 mg/kg/day IV to rabbits. No effects on fetal weight or development were seen in rats at the highest dose tested or in rabbits given 80 mg/kg/day (approximately 1 and 0.8 times the recommended maximum human dose based on body surface area, respectively). Maternal toxicity was observed in rats (at doses 120 mg/kg and above) and rabbits (at 80 mg/kg and above). Animal reproduction studies conducted in rabbits administered intravenous PEG 400 at 2000 mg/kg (approximately 8 times the maximum daily human dose, based on AUC levels of PEG 400) during organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 19) resulted in fetal scoliosis (thoracic and lumbar) and increased incidence of delayed or incomplete ossification of the pubes, epiphyses, and talus bones. No maternal toxicity was observed up to the maximum dose tested. Similarly, in animal reproduction studies conducted in pregnant rabbits (gestation days 6 to 19) and pregnant rats (gestation days 6 to 17) administered intravenous NADA at 1680 and 3780 mg/kg, respectively (at 32 times or greater based on AUC levels of NADA) resulted in fetal scoliosis and a spectrum of cardiovascular anomalies in rabbits and no adverse effects on fetuses in rats.
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary This formulation of Vancomycin Injection is not recommended for use during the first or second trimester of pregnancy because it contains the excipients, PEG 400 and NADA, which caused fetal malformations in animal reproduction studies (see Data ) . Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to the fetus. If therapy with Vancomycin Injection is needed during the first or second trimester of pregnancy, use other available formulations of vancomycin, free of PEG 400 and NADA. The available data on use of this formulation of Vancomycin Injection (with the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) in pregnant women are insufficient to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Available published data on vancomycin (without the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy related outcomes (see Data ) . There are no available data on first trimester use of vancomycin in pregnant women to assess the risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Vancomycin alone did not show adverse developmental effects when administered intravenously to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses less than or equal to the recommended maximum human dose based on body surface area (see Data ) . Reproduction studies in rabbits with intravenous doses of PEG 400 at approximately 8 times the maximum daily human dose based on systemic exposures of PEG 400 during organogenesis resulted in fetal spinal malformations. Reproduction studies in rabbits and rats using intravenous doses of NADA at approximately 32 and 20 times the maximum daily human dose, respectively, based on systemic exposures of NADA resulted in maternal toxicity and fetal spinal and cardiovascular malformations in rabbits, and maternal toxicity with no adverse embryo-fetal effects in rats. Vancomycin alone did not show adverse developmental effects when administered intravenously to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses less than or equal to the recommended maximum human dose based on body surface area (see Data ) . All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Human Data Available data from postmarketing cases on use of this formulation of vancomycin injection (with the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) in pregnant women are insufficient to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or infant outcomes. There are no available data on first trimester use of vancomycin (without the excipients PEG 400 and NADA); however, available published data on use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy related outcomes. A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of 10 pregnant intravenous drug users treated with vancomycin (formulation did not include the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) for suspected or documented methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 uninfected non-intravenous drug-dependent patients, and 10 uninfected intravenous drug-dependent patients who served as substance abuse controls. No infant in the vancomycin exposed group had abnormal sensorineural hearing at 3 months of age or nephrotoxicity. A published prospective study assessed outcomes in 55 pregnant women with a positive Group B streptococcus (GBS) culture and a high-risk penicillin allergy with resistance to clindamycin or unknown sensitivity who were administered vancomycin (formulation did not include the excipients PEG 400 and NADA) at the time of delivery. Vancomycin dosing ranged from the standard 1 g intravenously every 12 hours to 20 mg/kg intravenous every 8 hours (maximum individual dose 2 g). No major adverse reactions were recorded either in the mothers or their newborns. None of the newborns had sensorineural hearing loss. Neonatal renal function was not examined, but all of the newborns were discharged in good condition. Animal Data Vancomycin did not cause fetal malformations when administered during organogenesis to pregnant rats (gestation days 6 to 15) and rabbits (gestation days 6 to 18) at the equivalent recommended maximum human dose (based on body surface area comparisons) of 200 mg/kg/day IV to rats or 120 mg/kg/day IV to rabbits. No effects on fetal weight or development were seen in rats at the highest dose tested or in rabbits given 80 mg/kg/day (approximately 1 and 0.8 times the recommended maximum human dose based on body surface area, respectively). Maternal toxicity was observed in rats (at doses 120 mg/kg and above) and rabbits (at 80 mg/kg and above). Animal reproduction studies conducted in rabbits administered intravenous PEG 400 at 2000 mg/kg (approximately 8 times the maximum daily human dose, based on AUC levels of PEG 400) during organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 19) resulted in fetal scoliosis (thoracic and lumbar) and increased incidence of delayed or incomplete ossification of the pubes, epiphyses, and talus bones. No maternal toxicity was observed up to the maximum dose tested. Similarly, in animal reproduction studies conducted in pregnant rabbits (gestation days 6 to 19) and pregnant rats (gestation days 6 to 17) administered intravenous NADA at 1680 and 3780 mg/kg, respectively (at 32 times or greater based on AUC levels of NADA) resulted in fetal scoliosis and a spectrum of cardiovascular anomalies in rabbits and no adverse effects on fetuses in rats.
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use Vancomycin Injection is indicated in pediatric patients (1 month and older) [see Indications and Usage (1.1 to 1.5) and Dosage and Administration (2.2) ]. In pediatric patients, monitor vancomycin serum concentration and renal function when administering Vancomycin Injection [see Dosage and Administration (2.2 , 2.3) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . More severe infusion related reactions related to vancomycin administration may occur in pediatric patients. Concomitant administration of vancomycin and intravenous anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing in all patients including pediatric patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] .
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Vancomycin is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ] , and it may be useful to monitor renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] .
Overdosage
Supportive care is advised, with maintenance of glomerular filtration. Vancomycin is poorly removed by dialysis. Hemofiltration and hemoperfusion with polysulfone resin have been reported to result in increased vancomycin clearance. For current information on the management of overdosage, contact the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or www.poison.org.
Description
Vancomycin Injection, USP, in single-dose flexible bags contain vancomycin as vancomycin hydrochloride. It is a tricyclic glycopeptide antibacterial drug derived from Amycolatopsis orientalis (formerly Nocardia orientalis ). The molecular formula is C 66 H 75 Cl 2 N 9 O 24 ∙HCl and the molecular weight is 1,485.71. The chemical name is (Sa)-(3S,6R,7R,22R,23S,26S,36R,38aR)-44-{[2-O-(3-amino-2,3,6-trideoxy-3-C-methyl-α-L-lyxo-hexopyranosyl)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]-oxy}-3-(carbamoylmethyl)-10,19-dichloro-2,3,4,5,6,7,23,24,25,26,36,37,38,38a-tetradecahydro-7,22,28,30,32-pentahydroxy-6-[(2R)-4-methyl-2-(methylamino]valeramido]-2,5,24,38,39-pentaoxo-22H-8,11:18,21-dietheno-23,36(iminometha-no)-13,16:31,35-dimetheno-1H,16H-[1,6,9]-oxadiazacyclohexadecino-[4,5-m][10,2,16]-benzoxa-diazacyclotetracosine-26-carboxylic acid, monohydrochloride. Vancomycin hydrochloride has the following structural formula: Vancomycin Injection, USP, in single-dose flexible bags are sterile, nonpyrogenic premixed 100 mL, 150 mL, 200 mL, 250 mL, 300 mL, 350 mL or 400 mL solution containing 500 mg, 750 mg, 1 g, 1.25 g, 1.5 g, 1.75 g or 2 g vancomycin, respectively, as vancomycin hydrochloride. Each 100 mL of solution contains 1.8 mL polyethylene glycol 400, 1.36 g N-acetyl-D-alanine, 1.26 g L-lysine hydrochloride (monochloride) in water for injection. Hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide are used for pH adjustment. The pH is 4.5 to 5.5 and the osmolarity is 350 to 475 mOsmol/L. Chemical Structure
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action Vancomycin is an antibacterial drug [see Microbiology (12.4) ] .
How supplied
16.1 How Supplied Vancomycin Injection, USP is supplied as a ready to use clear, colorless to light brown solution in single-dose flexible bags containing 500 mg, 750 mg, 1 g, 1.25 g, 1.5 g, 1.75 g and 2 g vancomycin in 100 mL, 150 mL, 200 mL, 250 mL, 300 mL, 350 mL and 400 mL of liquid (consists of water and PEG together with the excipients NADA and lysine) [see Description (11) ] . The flexible bags are supplied in sealed aluminum overpouches. The bags are supplied in the following packages: 16.2 Storage NDC number Packaging configuration 70594-041-02 Carton of six 500 mg/100 mL bags 70594-041-03 Carton of twelve 500 mg/100 mL bags 70594-056-02 Carton of six 750 mg/150 mL bags 70594-056-03 Carton of twelve 750 mg/150 mL bags 70594-042-02 Carton of six 1 g/200 mL bags 70594-042-03 Carton of twelve 1 g/200 mL bags 70594-057-02 Carton of six 1.25 g/250 mL bags 70594-043-02 Carton of six 1.5 g/300 mL bags 70594-058-02 Carton of six 1.75 g/350 mL bags 70594-044-02 Carton of six 2 g/400 mL bags Store below 25°C (77ºF), in original package. Product should be used within 28 days of removal from aluminum overpouch.
Storage
16.2 Storage NDC number Packaging configuration 70594-041-02 Carton of six 500 mg/100 mL bags 70594-041-03 Carton of twelve 500 mg/100 mL bags 70594-056-02 Carton of six 750 mg/150 mL bags 70594-056-03 Carton of twelve 750 mg/150 mL bags 70594-042-02 Carton of six 1 g/200 mL bags 70594-042-03 Carton of twelve 1 g/200 mL bags 70594-057-02 Carton of six 1.25 g/250 mL bags 70594-043-02 Carton of six 1.5 g/300 mL bags 70594-058-02 Carton of six 1.75 g/350 mL bags 70594-044-02 Carton of six 2 g/400 mL bags Store below 25°C (77ºF), in original package. Product should be used within 28 days of removal from aluminum overpouch.
Patient information
Potential Risk of Exposure to Excipients During the First or Second Trimester of Pregnancy Advise patients to notify their healthcare provider if they are pregnant prior to treatment with this formulation of vancomycin [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ]. Infusion Reactions During or After Intravenous Use Advise patients that generalized skin redness, skin rash, itching, flushing, muscle pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, or dizziness may occur during Vancomycin Injection infusion. These reactions can be lessened or prevented by infusing the drug over at least 60 minutes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Acute Kidney Injury Advise patients that Vancomycin Injection can result in kidney damage and that blood tests are required to monitor vancomycin blood levels and kidney function during therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Hearing Loss or Balance Problems Advise patients that Vancomycin Injection may result in decreased hearing and to report hearing loss or balance problems to their health care provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Severe Dermatologic Reactions Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop Vancomycin Injection immediately and promptly report the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions or blisters to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] . Diarrhea Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibacterial drugs, including vancomycin, which usually ends when the antibacterial drug is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibacterial drugs, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibacterial drug. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Antibacterial Resistance Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including vancomycin, should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When vancomycin is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by vancomycin or other antibacterial drugs in the future.
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA LLC (revised Mar 23, 2023). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Vancomycin in 7 products
- Vancomycin Hydrochloride in 2 products
Vancomycin NDC products (9)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25021-157 | Vancomycin Hydrochloride 5 g/100mL Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, For Solution | Sagent Pharmaceuticals | ANDA |
| 25021-158 | Vancomycin Hydrochloride 10 g/100mL Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, For Solution | Sagent Pharmaceuticals | ANDA |
| 70594-041 | Vancomycin 500 mg/100mL Injection, Solution | Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA LLC | NDA |
| 70594-042 | Vancomycin 1 g/200mL Injection, Solution | Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA LLC | NDA |
| 70594-043 | Vancomycin 1.5 g/300mL Injection, Solution | Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA LLC | NDA |
| 70594-044 | Vancomycin 2 g/400mL Injection, Solution | Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA LLC | NDA |
| 70594-056 | Vancomycin 750 mg/150mL Injection, Solution | Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA LLC | NDA |
| 70594-057 | Vancomycin 1.25 g/250mL Injection, Solution | Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA LLC | NDA |
| 70594-058 | Vancomycin 1.75 g/350mL Injection, Solution | Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA LLC | NDA |
Frequently asked questions
What is Vancomycin used for?
Vancomycin Injection is a glycopeptide antibacterial indicated in adult and pediatric patients (1 month and older) for the treatment of: Septicemia ( 1.1 ) Infective Endocarditis ( 1.2 ) Skin and Skin Structure Infections ( 1.3 ) Bone Infections ( 1.4 ) Lower Respiratory Tract Infections ( 1.5 ) To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Vancomycin…
What are the side effects of Vancomycin?
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Infusion Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Nephrotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Ototoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Severe Dermatologic Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Vancomycin?
Vancomycin is listed by 2 labelers in the FDA NDC directory, including Sagent Pharmaceuticals, Xellia Pharmaceuticals USA LLC.