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DESCRIPTION Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is a lyophilized powder, for preparing intravenous (IV) infusions, in vials each containing the equivalent of 500 mg or 1 gram vancomycin base. 500 mg of the base are equivalent to 0.34 mmol. When reconstituted with Sterile Water for Injection to a concentration of 50 mg/mL, the pH of the solution is between 2.5 and 4.5. This product is oxygen sensitive. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP should be administered intravenously in diluted solution (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION), AFTER RECONSTITUTION FURTHER DILUTION IS REQUIRED BEFORE USE. Vancomycin is a tricyclic glycopeptide antibiotic derived from Amycolatopasis orientalis (formerly Nocardia orientalis ). The chemical name for vancomycin hydrochloride is 3S- [3 R *,6 S *( S *),7 S *,22 S *,23 R *,26 R *,36 S *,38a S *]]-3-(2-Amino-2-oxoethyl)-44-[[2-O-(3- amino-2,3,6-trideoxy-3-C-methyl-α-L-lyxo-hexopyranosyl)-ß-D-glucopyranosyl]oxy]-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-[[4-methyl-2-(methylamino)-1-oxopentyl]amino]-2,5,24,38,39-pentaoxo-22 H -8,11:18,21-dietheno-23,36-(iminomethano)-13,16:31,35-dimetheno-1 H ,16 H -[1,6,9]oxadiazacyclohexadecino[4,5- m ][10,2,16]-benzoxadiazacyclotetracosine-26-carboxylic acid, monohydrochloride. The molecular formula is C 66 H 75 Cl 2 N 9 O 24 • HCl and the molecular weight is 1,485.74. Vancomycin hydrochloride has the following structural formula: structure
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Vancomycin is poorly absorbed after oral administration. In subjects with normal kidney function, multiple intravenous dosing of 1 g of vancomycin (15 mg/kg) infused over 60 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of approximately 63 mcg/mL immediately after the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of approximately 23 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of approximately 8 mcg/mL 11 hours after the end of the infusion. Multiple dosing of 500 mg infused over 30 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of about 49 mcg/mL at the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of about 19 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL 6 hours after infusion. The plasma concentrations during multiple dosing are similar to those after a single dose. The mean elimination half-life of vancomycin from plasma is 4 to 6 hours in subjects with normal renal function. In the first 24 hours, about 75% of an administered dose of vancomycin is excreted in urine by glomerular filtration. Mean plasma clearance is about 0.058 L/kg/h, and mean renal clearance is about 0.048 L/kg/h. Renal dysfunction slows excretion of vancomycin. In anephric patients, the average half-life of elimination is 7.5 days. The distribution coefficient is from 0.3 to 0.43 L/kg. There is no apparent metabolism of the drug. About 60% of an intraperitoneal dose of vancomycin administered during peritoneal dialysis is absorbed systemically in 6 hours. Serum concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL are achieved by intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg of vancomycin. However, the safety and efficacy of the intraperitoneal use of vancomycin has not been established in adequate and well-controlled trials (see PRECAUTIONS ). Total systemic and renal clearance of vancomycin may be reduced in the elderly. Vancomycin is approximately 55% serum protein bound as measured by ultrafiltration at vancomycin serum concentrations of 10 to 100 mcg/mL. After IV administration of vancomycin, inhibitory concentrations are present in pleural, pericardial, ascitic, and synovial fluids; in urine; in peritoneal dialysis fluid; and in atrial appendage tissue. Vancomycin does not readily diffuse across normal meninges into the spinal fluid; but, when the meninges are inflamed, penetration into the spinal fluid occurs. Microbiology The bactericidal action of vancomycin results primarily from inhibition of cell-wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial-cell-membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. There is no cross-resistance between vancomycin and other antibiotics. Vancomycin is not active in vitro against gram-negative bacilli, mycobacteria, or fungi. Synergy The combination of vancomycin and an aminoglycoside acts synergistically in vitro against many strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus bovis, enterococci, and the viridans group streptococci. Vancomycin has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section. Aerobic gram-positive microorganisms Diphtheroids Enterococci (e.g., Enterococcus faecalis ) Staphylococci, including Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis (including heterogeneous methicillin-resistant strains) Streptococcus bovis Viridans group streptococci The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown.
theroids Enterococci (e.g., Enterococcus faecalis ) Staphylococci, including Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis (including heterogeneous methicillin-resistant strains) Streptococcus bovis Viridans group streptococci The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. Vancomycin exhibits in vitro MIC’s of 1 mcg/mL or less against most (≥90%) strains of streptococci listed below and MIC’s of 4 mcg/mL or less against most (≥90%) strains of other listed microorganisms; however, the safety and effectiveness of vancomycin in treating clinical infections due to these microorganisms have not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials. Aerobic gram-positive microorganisms Listeria monocytogenes Streptococcus pyogenes Streptococcus pneumoniae (including penicillin-resistant strains) Streptococcus agalactiae Anaerobic gram-positive microorganisms Actinomyces species Lactobacillus species Susceptibility Testing For specific information regarding susceptibility test interpretive criteria and associated test methods and quality control standards recognized by FDA for this drug, please see: https://www.fda.gov/STIC.
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is indicated for the treatment of serious or severe infections caused by susceptible strains of methicillin-resistant (β-lactam-resistant) staphylococci. It is indicated for penicillin-allergic patients, for patients who cannot receive or who have failed to respond to other drugs, including the penicillins or cephalosporins, and for infections caused by vancomycin-susceptible organisms that are resistant to other antimicrobial drugs. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is indicated for initial therapy when methicillin-resistant staphylococci are suspected, but after susceptibility data are available, therapy should be adjusted accordingly. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is effective in the treatment of staphylococcal endocarditis. Its effectiveness has been documented in other infections due to staphylococci, including septicemia, bone infections, lower respiratory tract infections, skin and skin structure infections. When staphylococcal infections are localized and purulent, antibiotics are used as adjuncts to appropriate surgical measures. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP has been reported to be effective alone or in combination with an aminoglycoside for endocarditis caused by S. viridans or S. bovis. For endocarditis caused by enterococci (e.g., E. faecalis), vancomycin has been reported to be effective only in combination with an aminoglycoside. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP has been reported to be effective for the treatment of diphtheroid endocarditis. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP has been used successfully in combination with either rifampin, an aminoglycoside, or both in early-onset prosthetic valve endocarditis caused by S. epidermidis or diphtheroids. Specimens for bacteriologic cultures should be obtained in order to isolate and identify causative organisms and to determine their susceptibilities to vancomycin. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP and other antibacterial drugs, Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP 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 . The parenteral form of vancomycin hydrochloride may be administered orally for treatment of antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis produced by C. difficile and for staphylococcal enterocolitis. Parenteral administration of vancomycin hydrochloride alone is of unproven benefit for these indications. Vancomycin is not effective by the oral route for other types of infections.
WARNINGS Infusion Reactions Rapid bolus administration (e.g., over several minutes) may be associated with exaggerated hypotension, including shock and rarely cardiac arrest. Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection should be administered in a diluted solution over a period of not less than 60 minutes to avoid rapid-infusion-related reactions. Stopping the infusion usually results in prompt cessation of these reactions. Nephrotoxicity Systemic vancomycin exposure may result in acute kidney injury (AKI). The risk of AKI increases as systemic exposure/serum levels increase. Monitor renal function in all patients, especially patients with underlying renal impairment, patients with co-morbidities that predispose to renal impairment, and patients receiving concomitant therapy with a drug known to be nephrotoxic. Ototoxicity Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin hydrochloride for injection. It may be transient or permanent. It has been reported mostly in patients who have been given excessive doses, who have an underlying hearing loss, or who are receiving concomitant therapy with another ototoxic agent, such as an aminoglycoside. Vancomycin should be used with caution in patients with renal insufficiency because the risk of toxicity is appreciably increased by high, prolonged blood concentrations. Dosage of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection must be adjusted for patients with renal dysfunction (see PRECAUTIONS and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ). Severe Dermatologic Reactions Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) have been reported in association with the use of vancomycin. Cutaneous signs or symptoms reported include skin rashes, mucosal lesions, and blisters. Discontinue vancomycin hydrochloride for injection at the first appearance of signs and symptoms of TEN, SJS, DRESS, AGEP, or LABD. Clostridium Difficile A ssociated Diarrhea (CDAD) Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile . C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile , and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated. Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis (HORV) Hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis, including permanent loss of vision, occurred in patients receiving intracameral or intravitreal administration of vancomycin during or after cataract surgery.
, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated. Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis (HORV) Hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis, including permanent loss of vision, occurred in patients receiving intracameral or intravitreal administration of vancomycin during or after cataract surgery. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administered by the intracameral or the intravitreal route have not been established by adequate and well-controlled trials. Vancomycin is not indicated for the prophylaxis of endophthalmitis.
PRECAUTIONS Clinically significant serum concentrations have been reported in some patients being treated for active C. difficile -induced pseudomembranous colitis after multiple oral doses of vancomycin. Prolonged use of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection may result in the overgrowth of nonsusceptible microorganisms. Careful observation of the patient is essential. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken. In rare instances, there have been reports of pseudomembranous colitis due to C. difficile developing in patients who received intravenous vancomycin hydrochloride for injection. Serial tests of auditory function may be helpful in order to minimize the risk of ototoxicity. Reversible neutropenia has been reported in patients receiving vancomycin hydrochloride for injection (see ADVERSE REACTIONS ). Patients who will undergo prolonged therapy with vancomycin hydrochloride for injection or those who are receiving concomitant drugs which may cause neutropenia should have periodic monitoring of the leukocyte count. Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is irritating to tissue and must be given by a secure IV route of administration. Pain, tenderness, and necrosis occur with intramuscular (IM) injection of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection or with inadvertent extravasation. Thrombophlebitis may occur, the frequency and severity of which can be minimized by administering the drug slowly as a dilute solution (2.5 to 5 g/L) and by rotation of venous access sites. There have been reports that the frequency of infusion-related events (including hypotension, flushing, erythema, urticaria, and pruritus) increases with the concomitant administration of anesthetic agents. Infusion-related events may be minimized by the administration of vancomycin as a 60-minute infusion prior to anesthetic induction. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administered by the intrathecal (intralumbar or intraventricular) route or by the intraperitoneal route have not been established by adequate and well controlled trials. Reports have revealed that administration of sterile vancomycin by the intraperitoneal route during continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) has resulted in a syndrome of chemical peritonitis. To date, this syndrome has ranged from cloudy dialysate alone to a cloudy dialysate accompanied by variable degrees of abdominal pain and fever. This syndrome appears to be short-lived after discontinuation of intraperitoneal vancomycin. Prescribing vancomycin hydrochloride for injection in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria. Drug Interactions Concomitant administration of vancomycin and anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing (see Pediatric Use, PRECAUTIONS ) and anaphylactoid reactions (see ADVERSE REACTIONS ). Monitor renal function in patients receiving vancomycin and concurrent and/or sequential systemic or topical use of other potentially, neurotoxic and/or nephrotoxic drugs, such as amphotericin B, aminoglycosides, bacitracin, polymyxin B, colistin, viomycin, or cisplatin.
naphylactoid reactions (see ADVERSE REACTIONS ). Monitor renal function in patients receiving vancomycin and concurrent and/or sequential systemic or topical use of other potentially, neurotoxic and/or nephrotoxic drugs, such as amphotericin B, aminoglycosides, bacitracin, polymyxin B, colistin, viomycin, or cisplatin. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Although no long-term studies in animals have been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential, no mutagenic potential of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection was found in standard laboratory tests. No definitive fertility studies have been performed. Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with vancomycin. It is not known whether vancomycin can affect reproduction capacity. In a controlled clinical study, the potential ototoxic and nephrotoxic effects of vancomycin on infants were evaluated when the drug was administered to pregnant women for serious staphylococcal infections complicating intravenous drug abuse. Vancomycin was found in cord blood. No sensorineural hearing loss or nephrotoxicity attributable to vancomycin was noted. One infant whose mother received vancomycin in the third trimester experienced conductive hearing loss that was not attributed to the administration of vancomycin. Because the number of patients treated in this study was limited and vancomycin was administered only in the second and third trimesters, it is not known whether vancomycin causes fetal harm. Vancomycin should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. Nursing Mothers Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is administered to a nursing woman. Because of the potential for adverse events, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Pediatric Use In pediatric patients, it may be appropriate to confirm desired vancomycin serum concentrations. Concomitant administration of vancomycin and anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing in pediatric patients (see PRECAUTIONS ). Geriatric Use The natural decrement of glomerular filtration with increasing age may lead to elevated vancomycin serum concentrations if dosage is not adjusted. Vancomycin dosage schedules should be adjusted in elderly patients (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ). Information for Patients Severe Dermatologic Reactions Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop vancomycin hydrochloride for injection immediately and promptly seek medical attention at the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions and blisters (see WARNINGS ). Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including vancomycin hydrochloride for injection should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When vancomycin hydrochloride for injection 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 Hydrochloride for Injection or other antibacterial drugs in the future. Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued.
ness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection or other antibacterial drugs in the future. Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, 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 antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible.
Drug Interactions Concomitant administration of vancomycin and anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing (see Pediatric Use, PRECAUTIONS ) and anaphylactoid reactions (see ADVERSE REACTIONS ). Monitor renal function in patients receiving vancomycin and concurrent and/or sequential systemic or topical use of other potentially, neurotoxic and/or nephrotoxic drugs, such as amphotericin B, aminoglycosides, bacitracin, polymyxin B, colistin, viomycin, or cisplatin.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Although no long-term studies in animals have been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential, no mutagenic potential of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection was found in standard laboratory tests. No definitive fertility studies have been performed.
Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with vancomycin. It is not known whether vancomycin can affect reproduction capacity. In a controlled clinical study, the potential ototoxic and nephrotoxic effects of vancomycin on infants were evaluated when the drug was administered to pregnant women for serious staphylococcal infections complicating intravenous drug abuse. Vancomycin was found in cord blood. No sensorineural hearing loss or nephrotoxicity attributable to vancomycin was noted. One infant whose mother received vancomycin in the third trimester experienced conductive hearing loss that was not attributed to the administration of vancomycin. Because the number of patients treated in this study was limited and vancomycin was administered only in the second and third trimesters, it is not known whether vancomycin causes fetal harm. Vancomycin should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.
Nursing Mothers Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is administered to a nursing woman. Because of the potential for adverse events, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric Use In pediatric patients, it may be appropriate to confirm desired vancomycin serum concentrations. Concomitant administration of vancomycin and anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing in pediatric patients (see PRECAUTIONS ).
Geriatric Use The natural decrement of glomerular filtration with increasing age may lead to elevated vancomycin serum concentrations if dosage is not adjusted. Vancomycin dosage schedules should be adjusted in elderly patients (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ).
Information for Patients Severe Dermatologic Reactions Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop vancomycin hydrochloride for injection immediately and promptly seek medical attention at the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions and blisters (see WARNINGS ). Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including vancomycin hydrochloride for injection should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When vancomycin hydrochloride for injection 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 Hydrochloride for Injection or other antibacterial drugs in the future. Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, 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 antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible.
ADVERSE REACTIONS Infusion-Related Events During or soon after rapid infusion of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, patients may develop anaphylactoid reactions, including hypotension (see ANIMAL PHARMACOLOGY ), wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, or pruritus. Rapid infusion may also cause flushing of the upper body (“red neck”) or pain and muscle spasm of the chest and back. These reactions usually resolve within 20 minutes but may persist for several hours. Such events are infrequent if vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is given by a slow infusion over 60 minutes. In studies of normal volunteers, infusion-related events did not occur when vancomycin hydrochloride for injection was administered at a rate of 10 mg/min or less. Nephrotoxicity Systemic vancomycin exposure may result in acute kidney injury (AKI). The risk of AKI increases as systemic exposure/serum levels increase. Additional risk factors for AKI in patients receiving vancomycin include receipt of concomitant drugs known to be nephrotoxic, in patients with pre-existing renal impairment, or with co-morbidities that predispose to renal impairment. Interstitial nephritis has also been reported in patients receiving vancomycin. Gastrointestinal Onset of pseudomembranous colitis symptoms may occur during or after antibiotic treatment (see WARNINGS ). Ototoxicity A few dozen cases of hearing loss associated with vancomycin have been reported. Most of these patients had kidney dysfunction or a preexisting hearing loss or were receiving concomitant treatment with an ototoxic drug. Vertigo, dizziness, and tinnitus have been reported rarely. Hematopoietic Reversible neutropenia, usually starting 1 week or more after onset of therapy with vancomycin or after a total dosage of more than 25 g, has been reported for several dozen patients. Neutropenia appears to be promptly reversible when vancomycin is discontinued. Thrombocytopenia has rarely been reported. Although a causal relationship has not been established, reversible agranulocytosis (granulocytes <500/mm 3 ) has been reported rarely. Phlebitis Inflammation at the injection site has been reported. Miscellaneous Patients have been reported to have had anaphylaxis, drug fever, nausea, chills, eosinophilia, rashes including exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (see WARNINGS, Severe Dermatologic Reactions ), and vasculitis in association with the administration of vancomycin. Chemical peritonitis has been reported following intraperitoneal administration (see PRECAUTIONS ). Post Marketing Reports The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval 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 Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) (see WARNINGS, Severe Dermatologic Reactions ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA at 1 (888) 721-7115 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088or www.fda.gov/medwatch .
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. The median lethal intravenous dose is 319 mg/kg in rats and 400 mg/kg in mice. To obtain up-to-date information about the treatment of overdose, a good resource is your certified Regional Poison Control Center. Telephone numbers of certified poison control centers are listed in the Physicians’ Desk Reference (PDR). In managing overdosage, consider the possibility of multiple drug overdoses, interaction among drugs, and unusual drug kinetics in your patient.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Infusion-related events are related to both the concentration and the rate of administration of vancomycin. Concentrations of no more than 5 mg/mL and rates of no more than 10 mg/min, are recommended in adults (see also age-specific recommendations). 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 events. An infusion rate of 10 mg/min or less is associated with fewer infusion-related events (see ADVERSE REACTIONS ). Infusion-related events may occur, however, at any rate or concentration. Patients with Normal Renal Function Adults The usual daily intravenous dose is 2 g divided either as 500 mg every 6 hours or 1 g every 12 hours. Each dose should be administered at no more than 10 mg/min or over a period of at least 60 minutes, whichever is longer. Other patient factors, such as age or obesity, may call for modification of the usual intravenous daily dose. Pediatric patients 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. Neonates In pediatric patients up to the age of 1 month, the total daily intravenous dosage may be lower. In neonates, an initial dose of 15 mg/kg is suggested, followed by 10 mg/kg every 12 hours for neonates in the 1st week of life and every 8 hours thereafter up to the age of 1 month. Each dose should be administered over 60 minutes. In premature infants, vancomycin clearance decreases as postconceptional age decreases. Therefore, longer dosing intervals may be necessary in premature infants. Close monitoring of serum concentrations of vancomycin is recommended in these patients. Patients with Impaired Renal Function and Elderly Patients Dosage adjustment must be made in patients with impaired renal function. In premature infants and the elderly, greater dosage reductions than expected may be necessary because of decreased renal function. Measurement of vancomycin serum concentrations can be helpful in optimizing therapy, especially in seriously ill patients with changing renal function. Vancomycin serum concentrations can be determined by use of microbiologic assay, radioimmunoassay, fluorescence polarization immunoassay, fluorescence immunoassay, or high-pressure liquid chromatography. If creatinine clearance can be measured or estimated accurately, the dosage for most patients with renal impairment can be calculated using the following table. The dosage of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection per day in mg is about 15 times the glomerular filtration rate in mL/min (see following table). DOSAGE TABLE FOR VANCOMYCIN IN PATIENTS WITH IMPAIRED RENAL FUNCTION (Adapted from Moellering et al. 1 ) Creatinine Clearance mL/min Vancomycin Dose mg/24 h 100 1,545 90 1,390 80 1,235 70 1,080 60 925 50 770 40 620 30 465 20 310 10 155 The initial dose should be no less than 15 mg/kg, even in patients with mild to moderate renal insufficiency. The table is not valid for functionally anephric patients. For such patients, an initial dose of 15 mg/kg of body weight should be given to achieve prompt therapeutic serum concentrations. The dose required to maintain stable concentrations is 1.9 mg/kg/24 hr.
even in patients with mild to moderate renal insufficiency. The table is not valid for functionally anephric patients. For such patients, an initial dose of 15 mg/kg of body weight should be given to achieve prompt therapeutic serum concentrations. The dose required to maintain stable concentrations is 1.9 mg/kg/24 hr. In patients with marked renal impairment, it may be more convenient to give maintenance doses of 250 to 1,000 mg once every several days rather than administering the drug on a daily basis. In anuria, a dose of 1,000 mg every 7 to 10 days has been recommended. When only serum creatinine is known, the following formula (based on sex, weight and age of the patient) may be used to calculate creatinine clearance. Calculated creatinine clearances (mL/min) are only estimates. The creatinine clearance should be measured promptly. Men: [Weight (kg) x (140 – age in years)] 72 x serum creatinine concentration (mg/dL) Women: 0.85 x above value The serum creatinine must represent a steady state of renal function. Otherwise, the estimated value for creatinine clearance is not valid. Such a calculated clearance is an overestimate of actual clearance in patients with conditions: (1) characterized by decreasing renal function, such as shock, severe heart failure, or oliguria; (2) in which a normal relationship between muscle mass and total body weight is not present, such as in obese patients or those with liver disease, edema, or ascites; and (3) accompanied by debilitation, malnutrition, or inactivity. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administration by the intrathecal (intralumbar or intraventricular) routes have not been established. Intermittent infusion is the recommended method of administration. Compatibility with Other Drugs and IV Fluids The following diluents are physically and chemically compatible (with 4 g/L vancomycin hydrochloride): 5% Dextrose Injection, USP 5% Dextrose Injection and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Lactated Ringer’s Injection, USP 5% Dextrose and Lactated Ringer’s Injection Normosol ® -M and 5% Dextrose 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Isolyte ® E Good professional practice suggests that compounded admixtures should be administered as soon after preparation as is feasible. Vancomycin solution has a low pH and may cause physical instability of other compounds. Preparation and Stability At the time of use, reconstitute the vials of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP with Sterile Water for Injection to a concentration of 50 mg of vancomycin/mL (see following table for volume of diluent). Concentration/Vial Volume of Diluent 500 mg 10 mL 1 gram 20 mL After reconstitution, the vials may be stored in a refrigerator for 14 days without significant loss of potency. Reconstituted solutions of vancomycin (500 mg/10 mL) must be further diluted in at least 100 mL of a suitable infusion solution. For doses of 1 gram (20 mL), at least 200 mL of solution must be used. The desired dose diluted in this manner should be administered by intermittent IV infusion over a period of at least 60 minutes. Compatibility with Intravenous Fluids Solutions that are diluted with 5% Dextrose Injection or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection may be stored in a refrigerator for 14 days without significant loss of potency. Solutions that are diluted with the following infusion fluids may be stored in a refrigerator for 96 hours: 5% Dextrose Injection and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection USP Lactated Ringer’s Injection USP Lactated Ringer’s and 5% Dextrose Injection USP Normosol ® -M and 5% Dextrose Isolyte ® E Acetated Ringer’s Injection Vancomycin solution has a low pH and may cause chemical or physical instability when it is mixed with other compounds.
se Injection and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection USP Lactated Ringer’s Injection USP Lactated Ringer’s and 5% Dextrose Injection USP Normosol ® -M and 5% Dextrose Isolyte ® E Acetated Ringer’s Injection 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 antibiotics have been shown to be physically incompatible. The likelihood of precipitation increases with higher concentrations of vancomycin. It is recommended to adequately flush the intravenous lines between the administration of these antibiotics. It is also recommended to dilute solutions of vancomycin to 5 mg/mL or less. Although intravitreal injection is not an approved route of administration for vancomycin, precipitation has been reported after intravitreal injection of vancomycin and ceftazidime for endophthalmitis using different syringes and needles. The precipitates dissolved gradually, with complete clearing of the vitreous cavity over two months and with improvement of visual acuity. Parenteral drug products should be visually inspected for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. For Oral Administration Oral vancomycin is used in treating antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis caused by C. difficile and for staphylococcal enterocolitis. Vancomycin is not effective by the oral route for other types of infections. The usual adult total daily dosage is 500 mg to 2 g given in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. The total daily dose in children is 40 mg/kg of body weight in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. The total daily dosage should not exceed 2 g. The appropriate dose may be diluted in 1 oz of water and given to the patients to drink. Common flavoring syrups may be added to the solution to improve the taste for oral administration. The diluted solution may be administered via a nasogastric tube.
HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is supplied as follows: NDC Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP Package Factor 68462-955-51 500 mg Vial (equivalent to 500 mg vancomycin) 10 vials per carton 68462-956-11 1 gram Vial (equivalent to 1 gram vancomycin) 10 vials per carton Storage Conditions Prior to reconstitution, store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] The container closure is not made with natural rubber latex.
ANIMAL PHARMACOLOGY In animal studies, hypotension and bradycardia occurred in dogs receiving an intravenous infusion of vancomycin hydrochloride 25 mg/kg, at a concentration of 25 mg/mL and an infusion rate of 13.3 mL/min.
REFERENCES 1. Moellering RC, Krogstad DJ, Greenblatt DJ: Vancomycin therapy in patients with impaired renal function:A nomogram for dosage . Ann Inter Med 1981; 94:343. Brands listed are the trademarks of their respective owners. Distributed by: Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA Elmwood Park, NJ 07407 November 2025 logo
DESCRIPTION Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is a lyophilized powder, for preparing intravenous (IV) infusions, in vials each containing the equivalent of 500 mg or 1 gram vancomycin base. 500 mg of the base are equivalent to 0.34 mmol. When reconstituted with Sterile Water for Injection to a concentration of 50 mg/mL, the pH of the solution is between 2.5 and 4.5. This product is oxygen sensitive. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP should be administered intravenously in diluted solution (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION), AFTER RECONSTITUTION FURTHER DILUTION IS REQUIRED BEFORE USE. Vancomycin is a tricyclic glycopeptide antibiotic derived from Amycolatopasis orientalis (formerly Nocardia orientalis ). The chemical name for vancomycin hydrochloride is 3S- [3 R *,6 S *( S *),7 S *,22 S *,23 R *,26 R *,36 S *,38a S *]]-3-(2-Amino-2-oxoethyl)-44-[[2-O-(3- amino-2,3,6-trideoxy-3-C-methyl-α-L-lyxo-hexopyranosyl)-ß-D-glucopyranosyl]oxy]-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-[[4-methyl-2-(methylamino)-1-oxopentyl]amino]-2,5,24,38,39-pentaoxo-22 H -8,11:18,21-dietheno-23,36-(iminomethano)-13,16:31,35-dimetheno-1 H ,16 H -[1,6,9]oxadiazacyclohexadecino[4,5- m ][10,2,16]-benzoxadiazacyclotetracosine-26-carboxylic acid, monohydrochloride. The molecular formula is C 66 H 75 Cl 2 N 9 O 24 • HCl and the molecular weight is 1,485.74. Vancomycin hydrochloride has the following structural formula: Vancomycin-SPL-Structure
ADVERSE REACTIONS Infusion-Related Events During or soon after rapid infusion of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, patients may develop anaphylactoid reactions, including hypotension (see ANIMAL PHARMACOLOGY ), wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, or pruritus. Rapid infusion may also cause flushing of the upper body (“red neck”) or pain and muscle spasm of the chest and back. These reactions usually resolve within 20 minutes but may persist for several hours. Such events are infrequent if vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is given by a slow infusion over 60 minutes. In studies of normal volunteers, infusion-related events did not occur when vancomycin hydrochloride for injection was administered at a rate of 10 mg/min or less. Nephrotoxicity Systemic vancomycin exposure may result in acute kidney injury (AKI). The risk of AKI increases as systemic exposure/serum levels increase. Additional risk factors for AKI in patients receiving vancomycin include receipt of concomitant drugs known to be nephrotoxic, in patients with pre-existing renal impairment, or with co-morbidities that predispose to renal impairment. Interstitial nephritis has also been reported in patients receiving vancomycin. Gastrointestinal Onset of pseudomembranous colitis symptoms may occur during or after antibiotic treatment (see WARNINGS ). Ototoxicity A few dozen cases of hearing loss associated with vancomycin have been reported. Most of these patients had kidney dysfunction or a preexisting hearing loss or were receiving concomitant treatment with an ototoxic drug. Vertigo, dizziness, and tinnitus have been reported rarely. Hematopoietic Reversible neutropenia, usually starting 1 week or more after onset of therapy with vancomycin or after a total dosage of more than 25 g, has been reported for several dozen patients. Neutropenia appears to be promptly reversible when vancomycin is discontinued. Thrombocytopenia has rarely been reported. Although a causal relationship has not been established, reversible agranulocytosis (granulocytes <500/mm 3 ) has been reported rarely. Phlebitis Inflammation at the injection site has been reported. Miscellaneous Patients have been reported to have had anaphylaxis, drug fever, nausea, chills, eosinophilia, rashes including exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (see WARNINGS, Severe Dermatologic Reactions ), and vasculitis in association with the administration of vancomycin. Chemical peritonitis has been reported following intraperitoneal administration (see PRECAUTIONS ). Post Marketing Reports The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval 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 Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) (see WARNINGS, Severe Dermatologic Reactions ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Gland Pharma at 864-879-9994 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .
HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is supplied as follows: NDC Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP Package Factor 68083-143-25 500 mg Vial (equivalent to 500 mg vancomycin) 25 vials per carton 68083-144-10 1 gram Vial (equivalent to 1 gram vancomycin) 10 vials per carton Storage Conditions Prior to reconstitution, store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] The container closure is not made with natural rubber latex.
REFERENCES Moellering RC, Krogstad DJ, Greenblatt DJ: Vancomycin therapy in patients with impaired renal function: A nomogram for dosage . Ann Inter Med 1981; 94:343. Brands listed are the trademarks of their respective owners. Manufactured by: Gland Pharma Limited D.P.Pally, Dundigal Post Hyderabad-500 043, INDIA Revised: December 2021
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection is a glycopeptide antibacterial indicated in adult and pediatric patients (neonates 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 Hydrochloride for Injection and other antibacterial drugs, Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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 Hydrochloride for Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 Hydrochloride for Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 Hydrochloride for 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 Hydrochloride for Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 Hydrochloride for Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 Hydrochloride for Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 Hydrochloride for Injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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.
atients (neonates 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 Hydrochloride for Injection and other antibacterial drugs, Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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.
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Administer Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection in a diluted solution over 60 minutes or greater to reduce the risk of infusion reactions. • See full prescribing information for further important administration and preparation instructions ( 2.1 , 2.5 ) • 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 ) • Neonates: See full prescribing information for recommended doses in neonates ( 2.3 ) • Patients with renal impairment: See full prescribing information for recommended doses in patients with renal impairment ( 2.4 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions To reduce the risk of infusion related adverse reactions, administer Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection in a diluted solution over 60 minutes or greater [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ) ]. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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 ) ]. In selected patients in need of fluid restriction, a concentration up to 10 mg/mL may be used [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ]. Administer Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection prior to intravenous anesthetic agents to reduce the risk of infusion related adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. Administer Vancomycin Hydrochloride by a secure intravenous route of administration to avoid local irritation and phlebitis reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )]. The supplied lyophilized powder must be reconstituted and subsequently diluted prior to intravenous use [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] . 2.2 Dosage in Adult Patients With Normal Renal Function The usual daily intravenous dose is 2 grams divided either as 500 mg every 6 hours or 1 g every 12 hours. Administer each dose 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. 2.3 Dosage in Pediatric Patients With Normal Renal Function Pediatric Patients (Aged 1 month and older) 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. Neonates (Up to 1 month old) In pediatric patients, up to the age of 1 month, the total daily intravenous dosage may be lower. In neonates, an initial dose of 15 mg/kg is suggested, followed by 10 mg/kg every 12 hours for neonates in the 1 st week of life and every 8 hours thereafter up to the age of 1 month. Each dose should be administered over 60 minutes. In premature infants, vancomycin clearance decreases as postconceptional age decreases. Therefore, longer dosing intervals may be necessary in premature infants. Close monitoring of serum concentrations of vancomycin is recommended 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 premature infants and the elderly, greater dosage reductions than expected may be necessary because of decreased renal function.
s 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 premature infants and 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 hr should be given after the initial dose of 15 mg/kg. 2.5 Preparation of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection for Intravenous Administration and Storage Instructions Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection must be reconstituted and further diluted. Reconstitution of the Lyophilized Powder and further dilution At the time of use, reconstitute the vials of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection (lyophilized powder) with Sterile Water for Injection to a concentration of 50 mg of vancomycin/mL then further dilute with an infusion solution to a final concentration of 5 mg/mL (see Table 1 for the appropriate volumes). Discard any reconstituted solution remaining in the vial. Table 1 Volume of Sterile Water for Injection to be Added for Reconstitution and Volume of Infusion Solution to be Used for Further Dilution Vancomycin Strength per Vial Volume of Sterile Water for Injection for reconstitution a Volume of infusion solution b to further dilute to a final concentration of 5 mg/mL 750 mg 15 mL 150 mL 1.25 g 25 mL 250 mL 1.5 g 30 mL 300 mL a After reconstitution, the vials may be stored in a refrigerator for 14 days without significant loss of potency. b Use an infusion solution from the list of the compatible infusion solutions below [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.6 )]. The desired dose diluted in this manner should be administered by intermittent IV infusion over a period of 60 minutes or greater. Parenteral drug products should be visually inspected for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Discard reconstituted and diluted solutions 14 days after initial reconstitution. 2.6 Compatibility with Intravenous Fluids The following diluents are physically and chemically compatible with 5 g/L vancomycin hydrochloride: 5% Dextrose Injection, USP 5% Dextrose Injection and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Lactated Ringer’s Injection, USP Lactated Ringer’s and 5% Dextrose Injection, USP 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Storage of Diluted Solutions: Solutions that are diluted with 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP may be stored in a refrigerator for 14 days without significant loss of potency. Solutions that are diluted with the following infusion fluids may be stored in a refrigerator for 96 hours: 5% Dextrose Injection and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Lactated Ringer’s Injection, USP Lactated Ringer’s and 5% Dextrose Injection, USP 2.7 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. It is recommended to adequately flush the intravenous lines between the administration of these antibacterial drugs. It is also recommended to dilute solutions of vancomycin to 5 mg/mL or less.
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is a sterile lyophilized powder for injection supplied as an off-white to light tan colored plug or powder in single-dose vials containing vancomycin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 750 mg, 1.25 g, or 1.5 g of vancomycin base. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection is a sterile lyophilized powder for injection in single-dose vials containing vancomycin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 750 mg, 1.25 g, or 1.5 g of vancomycin base ( 3 )
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Infusion Reactions: Hypotension, including shock and cardiac arrest, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, muscular, chest pain and “vancomycin infusion reaction” 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 Hydrochloride for Injection in a diluted solution over a period of 60 minutes or greater and also prior to intravenous anesthetic agents. ( 2.1 , 5.1 ) • 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. ( 5.2 ) • Ototoxicity: Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin hydrochloride. 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. ( 5.3 ) • Severe Dermatologic Reactions: Discontinue Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection at the first appearance of skin rashes, mucosal lesions, or blisters ( 5.4 ). • Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea: Evaluate patients if diarrhea occurs. ( 5.5 ) • Neutropenia: Periodically monitor leukocyte count. ( 5.7 ) • Phlebitis: To reduce the risk of local irritation and phlebitis administer Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection by a secure intravenous route of administration. ( 5.8 ) • Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria: Prescribing Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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. ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Infusion Reactions Hypotension, including shock and cardiac arrest, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, muscular and chest pain may occur with rapid Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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 Hydrochloride for Injection may also be associated with “vancomycin infusion reaction”, 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 Hydrochloride for Injection in a diluted solution 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. 5.2 Nephrotoxicity Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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).
usion if a reaction occurs. 5.2 Nephrotoxicity Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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 Hydrochloride for 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 Hydrochloride for Injection or reduce the dose. 5.3 Ototoxicity Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection. 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 Hydrochloride for Injection if ototoxicity occurs. Dosage of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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. 5.4 Severe Dermatologic Reactions Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) have been reported in association with the use of vancomycin. Cutaneous signs or symptoms reported include skin rashes, mucosal lesions, and blisters. Discontinue Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection at the first appearance of signs and symptoms of TEN, SJS, DRESS, AGEP, or LABD. 5.5 Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea Clostridioides difficile -associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile. C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued.
who present with diarrhea following antibacterial use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial treatment of C. difficile , and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated. Clinically significant serum concentrations have been reported in some patients being treated for active C. difficile -induced pseudomembranous colitis after multiple oral doses of vancomycin. Prolonged use of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection may result in the overgrowth of nonsusceptible microorganisms. Careful observation of the patient is essential. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken. In rare instances, there have been reports of pseudomembranous colitis due to C. difficile developing in patients who received intravenous Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection. 5.6 Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis (HORV) Hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis, including permanent loss of vision, occurred in patients receiving intracameral or intravitreal administration of vancomycin during or after cataract surgery. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administered by the intracameral or the intravitreal route have not been established by adequate and well-controlled trials. Vancomycin is not indicated for the prophylaxis of endophthalmitis. 5.7 Neutropenia Reversible neutropenia has been reported in patients receiving Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )]. Patients who will undergo prolonged therapy with Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection or those who are receiving concomitant drugs which may cause neutropenia should have periodic monitoring of the leukocyte count. 5.8 Phlebitis and Other Administration Site Reactions Inflammation at the site of injection of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection has been reported. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection is irritating to tissue and must be given by a secure intravenous route of administration to reduce the risk of local irritation and phlebitis. Administration of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection by intramuscular (IM), intraperitoneal, intrathecal (intralumbar or intraventricular), or intravitreal routes has not been approved and is not recommended. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administered by the intrathecal (intralumbar or intraventricular) route or by the intraperitoneal route have not been established by adequate and well controlled trials. Pain, tenderness, and necrosis occur with IM injection of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection or with inadvertent extravasation. Thrombophlebitis may occur, the frequency and severity of which can be minimized by administering the drug slowly as a dilute solution (2.5 to 5 g/L) and by rotation of venous access sites. Intraperitoneal administration during continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) can result in chemical peritonitis. Manifestations range from cloudy dialysate alone to a cloudy dialysate accompanied by variable degrees of abdominal pain and fever. This syndrome appears to be resolve after discontinuation of intraperitoneal vancomycin. 5.9 Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria Prescribing Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: • Infusion Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Nephrotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Ototoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] • Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] • Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] • Neutropenia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] The common adverse reactions are anaphylaxis, “vancomycin infusion reaction”, acute kidney Injury, hearing loss, neutropenia. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA at 1 (888) 721-7115 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 Hydrochloride for Injection were identified in clinical trials: Immune system disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and “vancomycin infusion reaction” [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] 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 ( 5.4 )]. 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 ( 5.5 )] 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 Hydrochloride for Injection is not approved for intramuscular and intraperitoneal administration) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] 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 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval 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 ( 5.4 )].
7 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 ( 5.1 ) 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.
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no available data on vancomycin use in pregnant women to inform a drug associated risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Available published data on vancomycin use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy related outcomes (see Data ). Vancomycin 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 A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of pregnant intravenous drug users treated with vancomycin for suspected or documented methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus-aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 non-intravenous drug-dependent patients who received no treatment, and 10 untreated 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 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). 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are insufficient data to inform the levels of vancomycin in human milk. There are no data on the effects of vancomycin on the breastfed infant or milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for vancomycin and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from vancomycin or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection is indicated in pediatric patients (neonates and older).
f breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for vancomycin and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from vancomycin or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection is indicated in pediatric patients (neonates and older). In pediatric patients, monitor vancomycin serum concentration and renal function when administering Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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 ( 5.1 )]. 8.5 Geriatric Use Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection 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 )].
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no available data on vancomycin use in pregnant women to inform a drug associated risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Available published data on vancomycin use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy related outcomes (see Data ). Vancomycin 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 A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of pregnant intravenous drug users treated with vancomycin for suspected or documented methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus-aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 non-intravenous drug-dependent patients who received no treatment, and 10 untreated 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 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).
8.4 Pediatric Use Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection is indicated in pediatric patients (neonates and older). In pediatric patients, monitor vancomycin serum concentration and renal function when administering Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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 ( 5.1 )].
8.5 Geriatric Use Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection 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 )].
11 DESCRIPTION Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP, contains the hydrochloride salt of vancomycin, a tricyclic glycopeptide antibacterial derived from Amycolatopsis orientalis (formerly Nocardia orientalis ). The chemical name for vancomycin hydrochloride, USP is (S a )- (3S,6R,7R,22R,23S,26S,36R,38aR)-44-[[2-O-(3-Amino-2,3,6-trideoxy-3-C-methyl-α-L-lyxo-hexo-pyranosyl)-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-(iminomethano) 13,16:31,35-dimetheno-1H,16H-[l,6,9]oxadiazacyclohexadecino[4,5-m][10,2,16]-benzoxadiaszacyclotetracosine-26-carboxylic acid, monohydrochloride. The molecular formula is C 66 H 75 Cl 2 N 9 O 24 • HCl and the molecular weight is 1,485.71. Vancomycin hydrochloride, USP has the following structural formula: Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is a sterile off-white to light tan colored lyophilized plug or powder for injection. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is supplied in single-dose vials, containing 769 mg, 1.28 g, or 1.54 g of vancomycin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 750 mg, 1.25 g, or 1.5 g of vancomycin base. The lyophilized powder is reconstituted with Sterile Water for Injection, USP which forms a clear, colorless or light to dark tan solution and subsequently diluted prior to intravenous administration [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )]. structure
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Vancomycin is an antibacterial drug [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )]. 12.2 Pharmacodynamics The pharmacodynamics of vancomycin is unknown. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics In subjects with normal kidney function, multiple intravenous dosing of 1 g of vancomycin (15 mg/kg) infused over 60 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of approximately 63 mcg/mL immediately after the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of approximately 23 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of approximately 8 mcg/mL 11 hours after the end of the infusion. Multiple dosing of 500 mg infused over 30 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of about 49 mcg/mL at the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of about 19 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL 6 hours after infusion. The plasma concentrations during multiple dosing are like those after a single dose. Distribution The volume of distribution ranges from 0.3 to 0.43 L/kg after intravenous administration. Vancomycin is approximately 55% serum protein bound as measured by ultrafiltration at vancomycin serum concentrations of 10 to 100 mcg/mL. After intravenous administration of vancomycin, inhibitory concentrations are present in pleural, pericardial, ascitic, and synovial fluids; in urine; in peritoneal dialysis fluid; and in atrial appendage tissue. Vancomycin does not readily diffuse across normal meninges into the spinal fluid; but, when the meninges are inflamed, penetration into the spinal fluid occurs. Elimination Mean plasma clearance is about 0.058 L/kg/h, and mean renal clearance is about 0.048 L/kg/h. The mean elimination half-life of vancomycin from plasma is 4 to 6 hours in subjects with normal renal function. In anephric patients, the mean elimination half-life is 7.5 days. Total body and renal clearance of vancomycin may be reduced in the elderly. Metabolism There is no apparent metabolism of the vancomycin. Excretion In the first 24 hours after intravenous administration, about 75% of an administered dose of vancomycin is excreted in urine by glomerular filtration. Renal impairment slows excretion of vancomycin. About 60% of an intraperitoneal dose of vancomycin administered during peritoneal dialysis is absorbed systemically in 6 hours. Serum concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL are achieved by intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg of vancomycin. However, the safety and efficacy of the intraperitoneal use of vancomycin has not been established in adequate and well-controlled trials [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )]. 12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of Action The bactericidal action of vancomycin results primarily from inhibition of cell-wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial-cell-membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. Resistance Vancomycin is not active in vitro against gram-negative bacilli, mycobacteria, or fungi. There is no cross-resistance between vancomycin and other antibacterials. Interaction With Other Antimicrobials The combination of vancomycin and an aminoglycoside acts synergistically in vitro against many isolates of Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus gallolyticus (previously known as Streptococcus bovis ), enterococcus spp, and the viridans group streptococci.
and other antibacterials. Interaction With Other Antimicrobials The combination of vancomycin and an aminoglycoside acts synergistically in vitro against many isolates of Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus gallolyticus (previously known as Streptococcus bovis ), enterococcus spp, and the viridans group streptococci. Antimicrobial Activity Vancomycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections [see Indications and Usage ( 1 )]. Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria Corynebacterium spp. Enterococcus spp. (including Enterococcus faecalis ) Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible isolates) Coagulase negative staphylococci (including S. epidermidis and methicillin-resistant isolates) Streptococcus gallolyticus (previously known as Streptococcus bovis ) Viridans group streptococci The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. At least 90 percent of the following bacteria exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for vancomycin against isolates of similar genus or organism group. However, the efficacy of vancomycin in treating clinical infections caused by these bacteria has not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials. Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria Listeria monocytogenes Streptococcus pyogenes Streptococcus pneumoniae Streptococcus agalactiae Anaerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria Actinomyces species Lactobacillus species Susceptibility Testing For specific information regarding susceptibility test interpretive criteria and associated test methods and quality control standards recognized by FDA for this drug, please see: https://www.fda.gov/STIC.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics In subjects with normal kidney function, multiple intravenous dosing of 1 g of vancomycin (15 mg/kg) infused over 60 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of approximately 63 mcg/mL immediately after the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of approximately 23 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of approximately 8 mcg/mL 11 hours after the end of the infusion. Multiple dosing of 500 mg infused over 30 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of about 49 mcg/mL at the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of about 19 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL 6 hours after infusion. The plasma concentrations during multiple dosing are like those after a single dose. Distribution The volume of distribution ranges from 0.3 to 0.43 L/kg after intravenous administration. Vancomycin is approximately 55% serum protein bound as measured by ultrafiltration at vancomycin serum concentrations of 10 to 100 mcg/mL. After intravenous administration of vancomycin, inhibitory concentrations are present in pleural, pericardial, ascitic, and synovial fluids; in urine; in peritoneal dialysis fluid; and in atrial appendage tissue. Vancomycin does not readily diffuse across normal meninges into the spinal fluid; but, when the meninges are inflamed, penetration into the spinal fluid occurs. Elimination Mean plasma clearance is about 0.058 L/kg/h, and mean renal clearance is about 0.048 L/kg/h. The mean elimination half-life of vancomycin from plasma is 4 to 6 hours in subjects with normal renal function. In anephric patients, the mean elimination half-life is 7.5 days. Total body and renal clearance of vancomycin may be reduced in the elderly. Metabolism There is no apparent metabolism of the vancomycin. Excretion In the first 24 hours after intravenous administration, about 75% of an administered dose of vancomycin is excreted in urine by glomerular filtration. Renal impairment slows excretion of vancomycin. About 60% of an intraperitoneal dose of vancomycin administered during peritoneal dialysis is absorbed systemically in 6 hours. Serum concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL are achieved by intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg of vancomycin. However, the safety and efficacy of the intraperitoneal use of vancomycin has not been established in adequate and well-controlled trials [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )].
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Although no long-term studies in animals have been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential, no mutagenic potential of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection was found in standard laboratory tests. No definitive fertility studies have been performed. 13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology In animal studies, hypotension and bradycardia occurred in dogs receiving an intravenous infusion of vancomycin hydrochloride 25 mg/kg, at a concentration of 25 mg/mL and an infusion rate of 13.3 mL/min.
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Although no long-term studies in animals have been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential, no mutagenic potential of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection was found in standard laboratory tests. No definitive fertility studies have been performed.
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is a sterile lyophilized powder for injection supplied as an off-white to light tan colored powder or plug in single-dose flip top vials that contain vancomycin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 750 mg, 1.25 g, or 1.5 g of vancomycin base. They are available as follows: Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP equivalent to 750 mg vancomycin in a 20 mL USP Type-1 clear glass tubular lyo vial (NDC 68462-477-20) with a flip off Blue color button (Matte top) seal, in packages of 10 vials (NDC 68462-477-74). Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP equivalent to 1.25 g vancomycin in a 30 mL USP Type-1 clear glass moulded lyo vial (NDC 68462-478-30) with a flip off Orange color button (Matte top) seal, in packages of 10 vials (NDC 68462-478-84). Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP equivalent to 1.5 g vancomycin in a 30 mL USP Type-1 clear glass moulded lyo vial (NDC 68462-479-30) with a flip off Blue color button (Matte top) seal, in packages of 10 vials (NDC 68462-479-84). Storage: Prior to reconstitution, store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION 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 intravenous infusion of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection. These reactions can be lessened or prevented by infusing the drug over at least 60 minutes [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. Acute Kidney Injury Advise patients that Vancomycin Hydrochloride for 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 ( 5.2 )]. Hearing Loss or Balance Problems Advise patients that Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection may result in decreased hearing and to report hearing loss or balance problems to their healthcare provider [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )]. Severe Dermatologic Reactions Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection immediately and promptly seek medical attention at the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions or blisters [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]. Antibacterial Resistance Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection 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 Hydrochloride for Injection or other antibacterial drugs in the future. 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 ( 5.5 )]. The brands listed are trademarks of their respective owners. Distributed by: Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA Elmwood Park, NJ 07407 August 2025 logo
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Vancomycin hydrochloride is indicated for the treatment of Clostridium difficil e‑associated diarrhea in adults and pediatric patients less than 18 years of age. Vancomycin hydrochloride is also indicated for the treatment of enterocolitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin‑resistant strains) in adults and pediatric patients less than 18 years of age. Important Limitations of Use Parenteral administration of vancomycin is not effective for the above infections; therefore, vancomycin must be given orally for these infections. Orally administered vancomycin hydrochloride is not effective for treatment of other types of infections. To reduce the development of drug‑resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of vancomycin hydrochloride and other antibacterial drugs, vancomycin hydrochloride 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. Vancomycin hydrochloride is a glycopeptide antibacterial indicated in adults and pediatric patients less than 18 years of age for the treatment of: ( 1 ) Clostridium difficile ‑associated diarrhea Enterocolitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin‑resistant strains) Important Limitations of Use: ( 1 ) ( 5.1 ) Orally administered vancomycin hydrochloride is not effective for treatment of other types of infections. To reduce the development of drug‑resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of vancomycin hydrochloride and other antibacterial drugs, vancomycin hydrochloride should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria. ( 1 )
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION C. difficile‑ associated diarrhea: Adult Patients (18 years of age and older): 125 mg orally 4 times daily for 10 days. ( 2.2 ) Pediatric Patients (less than 18 years of age): 40 mg/kg in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. The total daily dosage should not exceed 2 g. ( 2.3 ) Staphylococcal enterocolitis: Adult Patients (18 years of age and older): 500 mg to 2 g orally in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. ( 2.2 ) Pediatric Patients (less than 18 years of age): 40 mg/kg in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. The total daily dosage should not exceed 2 g. ( 2.3 ) See Full Prescribing Information for preparation and important administration information. ( 2.1 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions Prior to oral administration, the supplied vancomycin hydrochloride powder must be reconstituted by the healthcare provider (i.e., a pharmacist) to produce the oral solution [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 ) ]. 2.2 Adults C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea: The recommended dose is 125 mg administered orally 4 times daily for 10 days. Staphylococcal enterocolitis: Total daily dosage is 500 mg to 2 g administered orally in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. 2.3 Pediatric Patients (less than 18 years of age) For both C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea and staphylococcal enterocolitis, the usual daily dosage of vancomycin hydrochloride is 40 mg/kg in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. The total daily dosage should not exceed 2 g. 2.4 Preparation and Storage of Solutions of Vancomycin Hydrochloride Each vancomycin hydrochloride for oral solution kit contains 1 bottle of vancomycin hydrochloride USP powder and 1 bottle of pre‑measured Grape‑Flavored Diluent to be added to the vancomycin bottle. A healthcare provider (i.e., a pharmacist) must reconstitute vancomycin hydrochloride USP powder with the Grape‑Flavored Diluent provided in the kit. Vancomycin hydrochloride for oral solution is available in various strengths and volumes in the kit as shown in Table 1 . Table 1: Vancomycin Concentration and Volume after Reconstitution Vancomycin Concentration after Reconstitution Final Volume of Vancomycin Hydrochloride after Reconstitution Vancomycin Strength per Bottle Diluent for Vancomycin Hydrochloride 25 mg/mL 150 mL 3.75 g 147 mL 300 mL 7.5 g 295 mL 50 mg/mL 150 mL 7.5 g 145 mL 300 mL 15.0 g 289 mL Steps for the Preparation of Solutions of Vancomycin Hydrochloride Hold the neck of the bottle containing the vancomycin hydrochloride USP powder for oral solution (see Table 1 ), and tap the bottom edges on a hard surface to loosen the powder. Remove the cap from the vancomycin hydrochloride USP powder for oral solution bottle (“Powder Bottle”). Tap the top of the induction seal liner to loosen any powder that may have adhered to the liner. Carefully and slowly peel back the inner foil seal liner from the Powder Bottle. Shake the Grape‑Flavored Diluent (see ) for a few seconds. Remove the cap from the diluent bottle. Carefully and slowly peel back the inner foil seal from the diluent bottle. Transfer approximately one-half the contents of Grape-Flavored Diluent into the Powder Bottle. Replace the Powder Bottle cap, tighten onto the Powder Bottle, and shake the Powder Bottle vertically for approximately 45 seconds. NOTE: DO NOT use the diluent cap on the Powder Bottle as it may cause the solution to leak from the bottle.
ximately one-half the contents of Grape-Flavored Diluent into the Powder Bottle. Replace the Powder Bottle cap, tighten onto the Powder Bottle, and shake the Powder Bottle vertically for approximately 45 seconds. NOTE: DO NOT use the diluent cap on the Powder Bottle as it may cause the solution to leak from the bottle. Re-open the Powder Bottle and add the remaining Grape‑Flavored Diluent into the Powder Bottle. Replace the Powder Bottle cap, tighten onto the Powder Bottle, and shake the Powder Bottle for approximately 30 seconds. NOTE: DO NOT use the diluent cap on the Powder Bottle as it may cause the solution to leak from the bottle. Dispense the Powder Bottle containing reconstituted solution of vancomycin hydrochloride oral solution to the patient [ see Patient Counseling Information ( 17 ) ]. Instruct the patient to shake the reconstituted solution of vancomycin hydrochloride well before each use and to use an oral dosing device that measures the appropriate volume of the oral solution in milliliters. Store the reconstituted solution of vancomycin hydrochloride at refrigerated conditions, 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) when not in use. Discard the reconstituted solution of vancomycin hydrochloride after 14 days, or if it appears hazy or contains particulates.
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Each vancomycin hydrochloride for oral solution kit contains vancomycin hydrochloride USP as white to almost white or tan to brown powder for oral solution, equivalent to 3.75 g, 7.5 g or 15.0 g vancomycin, and Grape‑Flavored Diluent for reconstitution. Each vancomycin hydrochloride for oral solution kit contains: vancomycin hydrochloride USP, powder for oral solution, equivalent to 3.75 g, 7.5 g or 15.0 g vancomycin, and Grape‑Flavored Diluent. ( 3 )
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Vancomycin hydrochloride must be given orally for treatment of C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea and staphylococcal enterocolitis. Orally administered vancomycin hydrochloride is not effective for treatment of other types of infections. ( 5.1 ) Clinically significant serum concentrations have been reported in some patients who have taken multiple oral doses of vancomycin hydrochloride for C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea. Monitoring of serum concentrations may be appropriate in some instances. ( 5.2 ) Nephrotoxicity has occurred following oral vancomycin hydrochloride therapy and can occur either during or after completion of therapy. The risk is increased in geriatric patients. Monitor renal function. ( 5.3 ) Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin hydrochloride. Assessment of auditory function may be appropriate in some instances. ( 5.4 ) Severe Dermatologic Reactions: Discontinue vancomycin hydrochloride at the first appearance of skin rashes, mucosal lesions, or blisters. ( 5.5 ) Prescribing vancomycin hydrochloride 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. ( 5.7 ) 5.1 Oral Use Only Vancomycin hydrochloride must be given orally for treatment of C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea and staphylococcal enterocolitis. Orally administered vancomycin is not effective for treatment of other types of infections. Parenteral administration of vancomycin is not effective for treatment of C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea and staphylococcal enterocolitis. If parenteral vancomycin therapy is desired, use an intravenous preparation of vancomycin and consult the Full Prescribing Information accompanying that preparation. 5.2 Potential for Systemic Absorption Significant systemic absorption has been reported in some patients (e.g., patients with renal insufficiency and/or colitis) who have taken multiple oral doses of vancomycin hydrochloride for C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea. In these patients, serum vancomycin concentrations reached therapeutic levels for the treatment of systemic infections. Some patients with inflammatory disorders of the intestinal mucosa also may have significant systemic absorption of vancomycin. These patients may be at risk for the development of adverse reactions associated with higher doses of vancomycin hydrochloride; therefore, monitoring of serum concentrations of vancomycin may be appropriate in some instances, e.g., in patients with renal insufficiency and/or colitis or in those receiving concomitant therapy with an aminoglycoside antibacterial drug. 5.3 Nephrotoxicity Nephrotoxicity (e.g., reports of renal failure, renal impairment, blood creatinine increased) has occurred following oral vancomycin hydrochloride therapy in randomized controlled clinical trials and can occur either during or after completion of therapy. The risk of nephrotoxicity is increased in patients over 65 years of age [ see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 ) ]. In patients over 65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride to detect potential vancomycin- induced nephrotoxicity. 5.4 Ototoxicity Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin. It may be transient or permanent.
luding those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride to detect potential vancomycin- induced nephrotoxicity. 5.4 Ototoxicity Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin. It may be transient or permanent. It has been reported mostly in patients who have been given high intravenous doses, who have an underlying hearing loss, or who are receiving concomitant therapy with another ototoxic agent, such as an aminoglycoside. Serial tests of auditory function may be helpful in order to minimize the risk of ototoxicity [ see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 ) ]. 5.5 Severe Dermatologic Reactions Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear lgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) have been reported in association with the use of vancomycin. Cutaneous signs or symptoms reported include skin rashes, mucosal lesions, and blisters. Discontinue vancomycin hydrochloride at the first appearance of signs and symptoms of TEN, SJS, DRESS, AGEP, or LABD. 5.6 Potential for Microbial Overgrowth Use of vancomycin hydrochloride may result in the overgrowth of non‑susceptible bacteria. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken. 5.7 Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria Prescribing vancomycin hydrochloride in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug‑resistant bacteria. 5.8 Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis (HORV) Hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis, including permanent loss of vision, occurred in patients receiving intracameral or intravitreal administration of vancomycin during or after cataract surgery. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administered by the intracameral or intravitreal route have not been established by adequate and well‑controlled studies. Vancomycin is not indicated for prophylaxis of endophthalmitis.
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The most common adverse reactions (≥ 10%) were nausea (17%), abdominal pain (15%), and hypokalemia (13%). ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Wilshire Pharmaceuticals at 1-877-495-6856, or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described below reflect exposure to vancomycin hydrochloride in 260 adult subjects in two Phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea. In both trials, subjects received vancomycin hydrochloride 125 mg orally four times daily. The mean duration of treatment was 9.4 days. The median age of patients was 67, ranging between 19 and 96 years of age. Patients were predominantly Caucasian (93%), and 52% were male. Adverse reactions occurring in ≥ 5% of vancomycin hydrochloride‑treated subjects are shown in Table 2 . The most common adverse reactions associated with vancomycin hydrochloride (≥ 10%) were nausea, abdominal pain, and hypokalemia. Table 2: Common (≥ 5%) Adverse Reactions* for Vancomycin Hydrochloride Reported in Clinical Trials for Treatment of C. difficile Associated Diarrhea * Adverse reaction rates were derived from the incidence of treatment‑emergent adverse events. System/Organ Class Adverse Reaction Vancomycin Hydrochloride (%) (N=260) Gastrointestinal disorders Nausea 17 Abdominal pain 15 Vomiting 9 Diarrhea 9 Flatulence 8 General disorders and administration site conditions Pyrexia 9 Edema peripheral 6 Fatigue 5 Infections and infestations Urinary tract infection 8 Metabolism and nutrition disorders Hypokalemia 13 Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Back pain 6 Nervous system disorders Headache 7 Nephrotoxicity (e.g., reports of renal failure, renal impairment, blood creatinine increased) occurred in 5% of subjects treated with vancomycin hydrochloride. Nephrotoxicity following vancomycin hydrochloride typically first occurred within one week after completion of treatment (median day of onset was Day 16). Nephrotoxicity following vancomycin hydrochloride occurred in 6% of subjects over 65 years of age and 3% of subjects 65 years of age and younger [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) ]. Nephrotoxicity can also occur during oral vancomycin administration. The incidences of hypokalemia, urinary tract infection, peripheral edema, insomnia, constipation, anemia, depression, vomiting, and hypotension were higher among subjects over 65 years of age than in subjects 65 years of age and younger [ see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 ) ]. Discontinuation of study drug due to adverse events occurred in 7% of subjects treated with vancomycin hydrochloride. The most common adverse events leading to discontinuation of vancomycin hydrochloride were C. difficile colitis (< 1%), nausea (< 1%), and vomiting (< 1%). 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post‑approval use of vancomycin hydrochloride. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post‑approval use of vancomycin hydrochloride. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Ototoxicity : Cases of hearing loss associated with intravenously administered vancomycin have been reported. Most of these patients had kidney dysfunction or a preexisting hearing loss or were receiving concomitant treatment with an ototoxic drug [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 ) ]. Vertigo, dizziness, and tinnitus have been reported. Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear lgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 ) ], rashes (including exfoliative dermatitis). Hematopoietic : Reversible neutropenia, usually starting 1 week or more after onset of intravenous therapy with vancomycin or after a total dose of more than 25 g, has been reported. Neutropenia appears to be promptly reversible when vancomycin is discontinued. Thrombocytopenia has been reported. Miscellaneous : Anaphylaxis, drug fever, chills, nausea, eosinophilia, and vasculitis have been reported with the administration of vancomycin. A condition has been reported with oral vancomycin that is similar to the IV–induced syndrome with symptoms consistent with anaphylactoid reactions, including hypotension, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, pruritus, flushing of the upper body (“vancomycin infusion reaction”), pain and muscle spasm of the chest and back. These reactions usually resolve within 20 minutes but may persist for several hours.
<table ID="_Ref38297854" cellpadding="3.6pt" width="75%"><caption>Table 2: Common (≥ 5%) Adverse Reactions* for Vancomycin Hydrochloride Reported in Clinical Trials for Treatment of C. difficile Associated Diarrhea</caption><col width="28%"/><col width="28%"/><col width="30%"/><tfoot><tr><td align="left" colspan="3" styleCode="Botrule" valign="top">* Adverse reaction rates were derived from the incidence of treatment‑emergent adverse events.</td></tr></tfoot><tbody><tr styleCode="Toprule"><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">System/Organ Class</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Adverse Reaction</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Vancomycin Hydrochloride (%) (N=260) </content></paragraph></td></tr><tr><td rowspan="5" styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>Gastrointestinal disorders</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>Nausea</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>17</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>Abdominal pain</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>15</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>Vomiting</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>9</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>Diarrhea</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>9</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Flatulence</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>8</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td rowspan="3" styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>General disorders and administration site conditions</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>Pyrexia</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>9</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>Edema peripheral</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>6</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Fatigue</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>5</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Infections and infestations</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Urinary tract infection</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>8</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Metabolism and nutrition disorders</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Hypokalemia</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>13</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Back pain</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>6</paragraph></td></tr><tr styleCode="Botrule"><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>Nervous system disorders</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>Headache</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>7</paragraph></td></tr></tbody></table>
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Geriatrics : In patients over 65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride to detect potential vancomycin induced nephrotoxicity. ( 5.3 ) ( 6.1 ) ( 8.5 ) ( 14.1 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no available data on vancomycin hydrochloride use in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Available published data on vancomycin use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy-related outcomes (see Data ) . Vancomycin 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 A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of pregnant intravenous drug users treated with vancomycin for suspected or documented methicillin‑resistant S. aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 non‑intravenous drug‑dependent patients who received no treatment, and 10 untreated intravenous drug‑dependent patients 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 culture and a high‑risk penicillin allergy with resistance to clindamycin or unknown sensitivity who were administered vancomycin 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). 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are insufficient data to inform the levels of vancomycin in human milk. However, systemic absorption of vancomycin following oral administration is expected to be minimal [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ]. There are no data on the effects of vancomycin hydrochloride on the breastfed infant or milk production.
here are insufficient data to inform the levels of vancomycin in human milk. However, systemic absorption of vancomycin following oral administration is expected to be minimal [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ]. There are no data on the effects of vancomycin hydrochloride on the breastfed infant or milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for vancomycin hydrochloride and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from vancomycin hydrochloride or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Vancomycin hydrochloride is indicated in pediatric patients less than 18 years of age for the treatment of C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea and enterocolitis caused by S. aureus (including methicillin‑resistant strains) [ see Indications and Usage ( 1 ) and Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 ) ]. 8.5 Geriatric Use In clinical trials, 54% of vancomycin hydrochloride‑treated subjects were > 65 years of age. Of these, 40% were between the ages of > 65 and 75, and 60% were > 75 years of age. Clinical studies with vancomycin hydrochloride in C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea have demonstrated that geriatric subjects are at increased risk of developing nephrotoxicity following treatment with oral vancomycin hydrochloride, which may occur during or after completion of therapy. In patients over 65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride to detect potential vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity [ see Warnings and Precautions( 5.3 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ) and Clinical Studies ( 14.1 ) ]. Patients over 65 years of age may take longer to respond to therapy compared to patients 65 years of age and younger [ see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 ) ]. Clinicians should be aware of the importance of appropriate duration of vancomycin hydrochloride treatment in patients over 65 years of age and not discontinue or switch to alternative treatment prematurely.
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no available data on vancomycin hydrochloride use in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Available published data on vancomycin use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy-related outcomes (see Data ) . Vancomycin 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 A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of pregnant intravenous drug users treated with vancomycin for suspected or documented methicillin‑resistant S. aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 non‑intravenous drug‑dependent patients who received no treatment, and 10 untreated intravenous drug‑dependent patients 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 culture and a high‑risk penicillin allergy with resistance to clindamycin or unknown sensitivity who were administered vancomycin 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).
Risk Summary There are no available data on vancomycin hydrochloride use in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Available published data on vancomycin use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy-related outcomes (see Data ) . Vancomycin 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. Risk Summary There are insufficient data to inform the levels of vancomycin in human milk. However, systemic absorption of vancomycin following oral administration is expected to be minimal [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ]. There are no data on the effects of vancomycin hydrochloride on the breastfed infant or milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for vancomycin hydrochloride and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from vancomycin hydrochloride or from the underlying maternal condition.
8.4 Pediatric Use Vancomycin hydrochloride is indicated in pediatric patients less than 18 years of age for the treatment of C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea and enterocolitis caused by S. aureus (including methicillin‑resistant strains) [ see Indications and Usage ( 1 ) and Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 ) ].
8.5 Geriatric Use In clinical trials, 54% of vancomycin hydrochloride‑treated subjects were > 65 years of age. Of these, 40% were between the ages of > 65 and 75, and 60% were > 75 years of age. Clinical studies with vancomycin hydrochloride in C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea have demonstrated that geriatric subjects are at increased risk of developing nephrotoxicity following treatment with oral vancomycin hydrochloride, which may occur during or after completion of therapy. In patients over 65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride to detect potential vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity [ see Warnings and Precautions( 5.3 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ) and Clinical Studies ( 14.1 ) ]. Patients over 65 years of age may take longer to respond to therapy compared to patients 65 years of age and younger [ see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 ) ]. Clinicians should be aware of the importance of appropriate duration of vancomycin hydrochloride treatment in patients over 65 years of age and not discontinue or switch to alternative treatment prematurely.
10 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 .
11 DESCRIPTION Vancomycin hydrochloride for oral administration contains the hydrochloride salt of vancomycin, a tricyclic glycopeptide antibiotic derived from Amycolatopsis orientalis (formerly Nocardia orientalis ), which has the chemical formula C 66 H 75 Cl 2 N 9 O 24 •HCl. The molecular weight of vancomycin hydrochloride is 1485.71 g/mol. Vancomycin hydrochloride has the structural formula: Each vancomycin hydrochloride for oral solution kit contains a bottle of vancomycin hydrochloride USP, as white to almost white or tan to brown powder for oral solution, and a bottle of pre‑measured Grape‑Flavored Diluent, in the strengths and volumes listed in Table 3 . Table 3: Vancomycin Strength, Diluent Volume and Vancomycin Concentration after Reconstitution Vancomycin Strength per Bottle Equivalent Amount of Vancomycin Hydrochloride per Bottle Diluent Volume for Vancomycin hydrochloride Vancomycin Concentration after Reconstitution 3.75 g 3.84 g 147 mL 25 mg/mL 7.5 g 7.7 g 295 mL 7.5 g 7.7 g 145 mL 50 mg/mL 15.0 g 15.4 g 289 mL The Grape‑Flavored Diluent used to reconstitute the oral solution contains: artificial grape flavor, citric acid (anhydrous), D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Red No. 40, purified water, sodium benzoate and sucralose. Vancomycin hydrochloride structural formula
<table ID="_Ref38298181" cellpadding="3.6pt" width="75%"><caption>Table 3: Vancomycin Strength, Diluent Volume and Vancomycin Concentration after Reconstitution</caption><col width="21%"/><col width="21%"/><col width="21%"/><col width="21%"/><thead><tr><th align="left" styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><content styleCode="bold">Vancomycin Strength per Bottle</content></th><th align="left" styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><content styleCode="bold">Equivalent Amount of Vancomycin Hydrochloride per Bottle </content></th><th align="left" styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><content styleCode="bold">Diluent Volume for Vancomycin hydrochloride</content></th><th align="left" styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><content styleCode="bold">Vancomycin Concentration after Reconstitution</content></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>3.75 g</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>3.84 g</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>147 mL</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>25 mg/mL</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>7.5 g</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>7.7 g</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>295 mL</paragraph></td><td valign="top"/></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>7.5 g</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>7.7 g</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>145 mL</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>50 mg/mL</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>15.0 g</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>15.4 g</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>289 mL</paragraph></td><td valign="top"/></tr></tbody></table>
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Vancomycin is an antibacterial drug [ see Microbiology ( 12.4 ) ]. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics Vancomycin is poorly absorbed after oral administration. During multiple dosing of vancomycin hydrochloride capsules at 250 mg every 8 hours for 7 doses, fecal concentrations of vancomycin in volunteers exceeded 100 mcg/g in the majority of samples. No blood concentrations were detected and urinary recovery did not exceed 0.76%. In anephric subjects with no inflammatory bowel disease who received vancomycin oral solution 2 g for 16 days, blood concentrations of vancomycin were ≤ 0.66 mcg/mL in 2 of 5 subjects. No measurable blood concentrations were attained in the other 3 subjects. Following doses of 2 g daily, concentrations of drug were > 3100 mcg/g in the feces and < 1 mcg/mL in the serum of subjects with normal renal function who had C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea. After multiple‑dose oral administration of vancomycin, measurable serum concentrations may occur in patients with active C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea, and, in the presence of renal impairment, the possibility of accumulation exists. It should be noted that the total systemic and renal clearances of vancomycin are reduced in the elderly [ see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 ) ]. 12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of Action The bactericidal action of vancomycin against the vegetative cells of C. difficile and S. aureus results primarily from inhibition of cell‑wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial‑cell‑membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. Mechanism of Resistance C. difficile Isolates of C. difficile generally have vancomycin minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of < 1 mcg/mL; however, vancomycin MICs ranging from 4 mcg/mL to 16 mcg/mL have been reported. The mechanism which mediates C. difficile 's decreased susceptibility to vancomycin has not been fully elucidated. S. aureus S. aureus isolates with vancomycin MICs as high as 1024 mcg/mL have been reported. The exact mechanism of this resistance is not clear but is believed to be due to cell wall thickening and potentially the transfer of genetic material. Vancomycin has been shown to be active against susceptible isolates of the following bacteria in clinical infections [ see Indications and Usage ( 1 ) ]. Anaerobic gram‑positive bacteria C. difficile isolates associated with C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea. Gram‑positive bacteria S. aureus (including methicillin‑resistant isolates) associated with enterocolitis.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics Vancomycin is poorly absorbed after oral administration. During multiple dosing of vancomycin hydrochloride capsules at 250 mg every 8 hours for 7 doses, fecal concentrations of vancomycin in volunteers exceeded 100 mcg/g in the majority of samples. No blood concentrations were detected and urinary recovery did not exceed 0.76%. In anephric subjects with no inflammatory bowel disease who received vancomycin oral solution 2 g for 16 days, blood concentrations of vancomycin were ≤ 0.66 mcg/mL in 2 of 5 subjects. No measurable blood concentrations were attained in the other 3 subjects. Following doses of 2 g daily, concentrations of drug were > 3100 mcg/g in the feces and < 1 mcg/mL in the serum of subjects with normal renal function who had C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea. After multiple‑dose oral administration of vancomycin, measurable serum concentrations may occur in patients with active C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea, and, in the presence of renal impairment, the possibility of accumulation exists. It should be noted that the total systemic and renal clearances of vancomycin are reduced in the elderly [ see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 ) ].
12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of Action The bactericidal action of vancomycin against the vegetative cells of C. difficile and S. aureus results primarily from inhibition of cell‑wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial‑cell‑membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. Mechanism of Resistance C. difficile Isolates of C. difficile generally have vancomycin minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of < 1 mcg/mL; however, vancomycin MICs ranging from 4 mcg/mL to 16 mcg/mL have been reported. The mechanism which mediates C. difficile 's decreased susceptibility to vancomycin has not been fully elucidated. S. aureus S. aureus isolates with vancomycin MICs as high as 1024 mcg/mL have been reported. The exact mechanism of this resistance is not clear but is believed to be due to cell wall thickening and potentially the transfer of genetic material. Vancomycin has been shown to be active against susceptible isolates of the following bacteria in clinical infections [ see Indications and Usage ( 1 ) ]. Anaerobic gram‑positive bacteria C. difficile isolates associated with C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea. Gram‑positive bacteria S. aureus (including methicillin‑resistant isolates) associated with enterocolitis.
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility No long‑term carcinogenesis studies in animals have been conducted. At concentrations up to 1000 mcg/mL, vancomycin had no mutagenic effect in vitro in the mouse lymphoma forward mutation assay or the primary rat hepatocyte unscheduled DNA synthesis assay. The concentrations tested in vitro were above the peak plasma vancomycin concentrations of 20 to 40 mcg/mL usually achieved in humans after slow infusion of the maximum recommended dose of 1 g. Vancomycin had no mutagenic effect in vivo in the Chinese hamster sister chromatid exchange assay (400 mg/kg IP) or the mouse micronucleus assay (800 mg/kg IP). No definitive fertility studies have been conducted.
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility No long‑term carcinogenesis studies in animals have been conducted. At concentrations up to 1000 mcg/mL, vancomycin had no mutagenic effect in vitro in the mouse lymphoma forward mutation assay or the primary rat hepatocyte unscheduled DNA synthesis assay. The concentrations tested in vitro were above the peak plasma vancomycin concentrations of 20 to 40 mcg/mL usually achieved in humans after slow infusion of the maximum recommended dose of 1 g. Vancomycin had no mutagenic effect in vivo in the Chinese hamster sister chromatid exchange assay (400 mg/kg IP) or the mouse micronucleus assay (800 mg/kg IP). No definitive fertility studies have been conducted.
14 CLINICAL STUDIES 14.1 Diarrhea Associated with Clostridium difficile In two trials, vancomycin hydrochloride 125 mg orally four times daily for 10 days was evaluated in 266 adult subjects with C. difficile ‑associated diarrhea (CDAD). Enrolled subjects were 18 years of age or older and received no more than 48 hours of treatment with oral vancomycin hydrochloride or oral/intravenous metronidazole in the 5 days preceding enrollment. CDAD was defined as ≥ 3 loose or watery bowel movements within the 24 hours preceding enrollment, and the presence of either C. difficile toxin A or B, or pseudomembranes on endoscopy within the 72 hours preceding enrollment. Subjects with fulminant C. difficile disease, sepsis with hypotension, ileus, peritoneal signs or severe hepatic disease were excluded. Efficacy analyses were performed on the Full Analysis Set (FAS), which included randomized subjects who received at least one dose of vancomycin hydrochloride and had any post‑dosing investigator evaluation data (N = 259; 134 in Trial 1 and 125 in Trial 2). The demographic profile and baseline CDAD characteristics of enrolled subjects were similar in the two trials. Vancomycin hydrochloride‑treated subjects had a median age of 67 years, were mainly white (93%), and male (52%). CDAD was classified as severe (defined as 10 or more unformed bowel movements per day or white blood cell count (WBC) ≥ 15000/mm 3 ) in 25% of subjects, and 47% were previously treated for CDAD. Efficacy was assessed by using clinical success, defined as diarrhea resolution and the absence of severe abdominal discomfort due to CDAD, on Day 10. An additional efficacy endpoint was the time to resolution of diarrhea, defined as the beginning of diarrhea resolution that was sustained through the end of the prescribed active treatment period. The results for clinical success for vancomycin hydrochloride‑treated subjects in both trials are shown in Table 4 . Table 4: Clinical Success Rates (Full Analysis Set) Clinical Success Rate Vancomycin Hydrochloride % (N) 95% Confidence Interval Trial 1 81.3 (134) (74.4, 88.3) Trial 2 80.8 (125) (73.5, 88.1) The median time to resolution of diarrhea was 5 days and 4 days in Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively. For subjects older than 65 years of age, the median time to resolution was 6 days and 4 days in Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively. In subjects with diarrhea resolution at end‑of‑treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride, recurrence of CDAD during the following four weeks occurred in 25 of 107 (23%) and 18 of 102 (18%) in Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively. Restriction Endonuclease Analysis (REA) was used to identify C. difficile baseline isolates in the BI group. In Trial 1, the vancomycin hydrochloride‑treated subjects were classified at baseline as follows: 31 (23%) with BI strain, 69 (52%) with non‑BI strain, and 34 (25%) with unknown strain. Clinical success rates were 87% for BI strain, 81% for non‑BI strain, and 76% for unknown strain. In subjects with diarrhea resolution at end‑of‑treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride, recurrence of CDAD during the following four weeks occurred in 7 of 26 subjects with BI strain, 12 of 56 subjects with non‑BI strain, and 6 of 25 subjects with unknown strain.
<table ID="_Ref38298334" cellpadding="3.6pt" width="75%"><caption>Table 4: Clinical Success Rates (Full Analysis Set)</caption><col width="28%"/><col width="28%"/><col width="28%"/><tbody><tr styleCode="Toprule"><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"/><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Clinical Success Rate Vancomycin Hydrochloride % (N) </content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">95% Confidence Interval</content></paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>Trial 1</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>81.3 (134)</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>(74.4, 88.3)</paragraph></td></tr><tr styleCode="Botrule"><td valign="top"><paragraph>Trial 2</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>80.8 (125)</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>(73.5, 88.1)</paragraph></td></tr></tbody></table>
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING How Supplied Each vancomycin hydrochloride for oral solution kit contains a bottle of vancomycin hydrochloride USP, as white to almost white or tan to brown powder for oral solution, and a bottle of pre‑measured Grape‑Flavored Diluent, in the strengths and volumes listed in . Table 5: Vancomycin Strength, Diluent Volume and National Drug Code (NDC) Numbers Vancomycin Strength per Bottle Diluent Volume for Vancomycin Hydrochloride NDC Numbers 3.75 g 147 mL 52536-104-05 7.5 g 295 mL 52536-107-10 7.5 g 145 mL 52536-106-05 15.0 g 289 mL 52536-108-10 Storage and Handling Store the vancomycin hydrochloride for oral solution kit at refrigerated conditions, 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Store reconstituted solutions of vancomycin hydrochloride at 2°C to 8°C [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 ) ]. Do not freeze. Keep container tightly closed. Protect from light.
<table ID="_Ref38298369" cellpadding="3.6pt" width="75%"><caption>Table 5: Vancomycin Strength, Diluent Volume and National Drug Code (NDC) Numbers</caption><col width="28%"/><col width="28%"/><col width="28%"/><thead><tr><th align="left" styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><content styleCode="bold">Vancomycin Strength per Bottle</content></th><th align="left" styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><content styleCode="bold">Diluent Volume for Vancomycin Hydrochloride</content></th><th align="left" styleCode="Botrule " valign="middle"><content styleCode="bold">NDC Numbers</content></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>3.75 g</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>147 mL</paragraph></td><td styleCode="Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>52536-104-05</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>7.5 g</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>295 mL</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>52536-107-10</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>7.5 g</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>145 mL</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>52536-106-05</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td valign="top"><paragraph>15.0 g</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>289 mL</paragraph></td><td valign="top"><paragraph>52536-108-10</paragraph></td></tr></tbody></table>
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Severe Dermatologic Reactions Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop taking vancomycin hydrochloride immediately and promptly seek medical attention at the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions or blisters, [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 ) ]. Antibacterial Resistance Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including vancomycin hydrochloride should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When vancomycin hydrochloride 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 hydrochloride or other antibacterial drugs in the future. Important Administration and Storage Instructions Instruct the patient or caregiver to [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 ) ]: Shake the reconstituted solutions of vancomycin hydrochloride well before each use and to use an oral dosing device that measures the appropriate volume of the oral solution in milliliters. Store the reconstituted solutions of vancomycin hydrochloride at refrigerated conditions, 2° C to 8° C (36° F to 46° F) when not in use. Discard reconstituted solutions of vancomycin hydrochloride after 14 days, or if it appears hazy or contains particulates.
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution and other antibacterial drugs, Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria. This preparation for the treatment of colitis is for oral use only and is not systemically absorbed. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution must be given orally for treatment of staphylococcal enterocolitis and antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis caused by Clostridium difficile . Orally administered Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution is not effective for other types of infection. Parenteral administration of vancomycin is not effective for treatment of staphylococcal enterocolitis and antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis caused by C. difficile . If parenteral vancomycin therapy is desired, use an intravenous preparation of vancomycin and consult the package insert accompanying that preparation. PREPARATION AND STABILITY Mix the contents of the bottle with water as directed below. When reconstituted, each 5 mL contains approximately 250 mg of vancomycin. These mixtures may be kept for two weeks in a refrigerator without significant loss of potency. Directions for mixing Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution USP: 80 mL – Slowly add 80 mL water and shake vigorously. 150 mL – Slowly add 150 mL water and shake vigorously. 300 mL – Slowly add 300 mL water and shake vigorously. The appropriate oral solution dose may be diluted in 1 oz of water and given to the patient to drink. The diluted material may be administered via nasogastric tube.
DESCRIPTION Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution USP contains chromatographically purified vancomycin hydrochloride USP, a tricyclic glycopeptide antibiotic derived from Amycolatopsis orientalis (formerly Nocardia orientalis ), which has the chemical formula C 66 H 75 Cl 2 N 9 O 24 •HCl. The molecular weight of vancomycin hydrochloride is 1,485.73; 500 mg of the base is equivalent to 0.34 mmol. Vancomycin hydrochloride has the following structural formula: Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution USP is intended for reconstitution with water. Each 5 mL of reconstituted solution contains vancomycin hydrochloride equivalent to 250 mg (0.17 mmol) vancomycin. Inactive ingredients: citric acid anhydrous, sodium benzoate, sucralose, and mixed berry flavor. Contains no ingredient made from a gluten-containing grain (wheat, barley or rye). structure
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Vancomycin is poorly absorbed after oral administration. During multiple dosing of 250 mg every 8 hours for 7 doses, fecal concentrations of vancomycin in volunteers exceeded 100 mg/kg in the majority of samples. No blood concentrations were detected and urinary recovery did not exceed 0.76%. In anephric patients with no inflammatory bowel disease, blood concentrations of vancomycin were barely measurable (0.66 mcg/mL) in 2 of 5 subjects who received 2 g of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution daily for 16 days. No measurable blood concentrations were attained in the other 3 subjects. With doses of 2 g daily, very high concentrations of drug can be found in the feces (>3,100 mg/kg) and very low concentrations (<1 mcg/mL) can be found in the serum of patients with normal renal function who have pseudomembranous colitis. Orally administered vancomycin does not usually enter the systemic circulation even when inflammatory lesions are present. After multiple-dose oral administration of vancomycin, measurable serum concentrations may infrequently occur in patients with active C. difficile -induced pseudomembranous colitis, and, in the presence of renal impairment, the possibility of accumulation exists. Microbiology The bactericidal action of vancomycin results primarily from inhibition of cell-wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial-cell-membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. NOTE: The oral form of vancomycin is effective only for the infections noted in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section. The oral form is not effective for any other type of infection. Vancomycin has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section. Aerobic gram-positive microorganisms Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant strains) associated with enterocolitis Aerobic gram-positive microorganisms Clostridium difficile antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis
Microbiology The bactericidal action of vancomycin results primarily from inhibition of cell-wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial-cell-membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. NOTE: The oral form of vancomycin is effective only for the infections noted in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section. The oral form is not effective for any other type of infection. Vancomycin has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section. Aerobic gram-positive microorganisms Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant strains) associated with enterocolitis Aerobic gram-positive microorganisms Clostridium difficile antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution is administered orally for treatment of enterocolitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant strains) and antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis caused by C. difficile . Parenteral administration of vancomycin is not effective for the above indications; therefore, Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution must be given orally for these infections. Orally administered Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution is not effective for other types of infection. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution and other antibacterial drugs, Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution 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.
WARNINGS Nephrotoxicity Nephrotoxicity (e.g., reports of renal failure, renal impairment, blood creatinine increased) has occurred following oral vancomycin hydrochloride therapy in randomized controlled clinical trials, and can occur either during or after completion of therapy. The risk of nephrotoxicity is increased in patients over 65 years of age. In patients over 65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with vancomycin oral solution to detect potential vancomycin induced nephrotoxicity. Ototoxicity Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin. It may be transient or permanent. It has been reported mostly in patients who have been given excessive intravenous doses, who have an underlying hearing loss, or who are receiving concomitant therapy with another ototoxic agent, such as an aminoglycoside. Serial tests of auditory function may be helpful in order to minimize the risk of ototoxicity. Severe Dermatologic Reactions Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) have been reported in association with the use of vancomycin. Cutaneous signs or symptoms reported include skin rashes, mucosal lesions, and blisters. Discontinue Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution at the first appearance of signs and symptoms of TEN, SJS, DRESS, AGEP, or LABD. Clostridium Difficile Associated Diarrhea (CDAD) Significant systemic absorption has been reported in some patients (e.g., patients with renal insufficiency and/or colitis) who have taken multiple oral doses of vancomycin hydrochloride for C. difficile -associated diarrhea. In these patients, serum vancomycin concentrations reached therapeutic levels for the treatment of systemic infections. Some patients with inflammatory disorders of the intestinal mucosa also may have significant systemic absorption of vancomycin. These patients may be at risk for the development of adverse reactions associated with higher doses of vancomycin oral solution; therefore, monitoring of serum concentrations of vancomycin may be appropriate in some instances, e.g., in patients with renal insufficiency and/or colitis or in those receiving concomitant therapy with an aminoglycoside antibacterial drug.
PRECAUTIONS Use of vancomycin may result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible bacteria. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken. Prescribing vancomycin 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. Hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis, including permanent loss of vision, occurred in patients receiving intracameral or intravitreal administration of vancomycin during or after cataract surgery. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administered by the intracameral or intravitreal route have not been established by adequate and well-controlled studies. Vancomycin is not indicated for prophylaxis of endophthalmitis. Pregnancy Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with vancomycin. It is not known whether vancomycin can affect reproduction capacity. In a controlled clinical study, the potential ototoxic and nephrotoxic effects of vancomycin on infants were evaluated when the drug was administered intravenously to pregnant women for serious staphylococcal infections complicating intravenous drug abuse. Vancomycin was found in cord blood. No sensorineural hearing loss or nephrotoxicity attributable to vancomycin was noted. One infant whose mother received vancomycin in the third trimester experienced conductive hearing loss that was not attributed to the administration of vancomycin. Because the number of patients treated in this study was limited and vancomycin was administered only in the second and third trimesters, it is not known whether vancomycin causes fetal harm. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. Nursing Mothers Vancomycin is excreted in human milk based on information obtained with the intravenous administration of vancomycin. However, systemic absorption of vancomycin is very low following oral administration of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ). It is not known whether oral vancomycin is excreted in human milk, as no studies of vancomycin concentration in human milk after oral administration have been done. Caution should be exercised when Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution is administered to a nursing woman. Because of the potential for adverse events, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Geriatric Use In clinical trials, 54% of vancomycin hydrochloride-treated subjects were > 65 years of age. Of these, 40% were between the ages of > 65 and 75, and 60% were > 75 years of age. Clinical studies with vancomycin hydrochloride in C. difficile -associated diarrhea have demonstrated that geriatric subjects are at increased risk of developing nephrotoxicity following treatment with oral vancomycin hydrochloride, which may occur during or after completion of therapy. In patients over 65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride to detect potential vancomycin induced nephrotoxicity. Patients over 65 years of age may take longer to respond to therapy compared to patients 65 years of age and younger.
hose with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride to detect potential vancomycin induced nephrotoxicity. Patients over 65 years of age may take longer to respond to therapy compared to patients 65 years of age and younger. Clinicians should be aware of the importance of appropriate duration of vancomycin hydrochloride treatment in patients over 65 years of age and not discontinue or switch to alternative treatment prematurely. Information for Patients Severe Dermatologic Reactions Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop taking Vancocin immediately and promptly seek medical attention at the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions and blisters (see WARNINGS ). Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution 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 Hydrochloride for Oral Solution or other antibacterial drugs in the future.
Geriatric Use In clinical trials, 54% of vancomycin hydrochloride-treated subjects were > 65 years of age. Of these, 40% were between the ages of > 65 and 75, and 60% were > 75 years of age. Clinical studies with vancomycin hydrochloride in C. difficile -associated diarrhea have demonstrated that geriatric subjects are at increased risk of developing nephrotoxicity following treatment with oral vancomycin hydrochloride, which may occur during or after completion of therapy. In patients over 65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with vancomycin hydrochloride to detect potential vancomycin induced nephrotoxicity. Patients over 65 years of age may take longer to respond to therapy compared to patients 65 years of age and younger. Clinicians should be aware of the importance of appropriate duration of vancomycin hydrochloride treatment in patients over 65 years of age and not discontinue or switch to alternative treatment prematurely.
Information for Patients Severe Dermatologic Reactions Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop taking Vancocin immediately and promptly seek medical attention at the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions and blisters (see WARNINGS ). Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution 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 Hydrochloride for Oral Solution or other antibacterial drugs in the future.
ADVERSE REACTIONS Nephrotoxicity Nephrotoxicity (e.g., reports of renal failure, renal impairment, blood creatinine increased) occurred in 5% of subjects treated with vancomycin hydrochloride. Nephrotoxicity following vancomycin hydrochloride typically first occurred within one week after completion of treatment (median day of onset was Day 16). Nephrotoxicity following vancomycin hydrochloride occurred in 6% of subjects over 65 years of age and 3% of subjects 65 years of age and younger. Nephrotoxicity can also occur during oral vancomycin administration. The incidences of hypokalemia, urinary tract infection, peripheral edema, insomnia, constipation, anemia, depression, vomiting, and hypotension were higher among subjects over 65 years of age than in subjects 65 years of age and younger. Discontinuation of study drug due to adverse events occurred in 7% of subjects treated with vancomycin hydrochloride. The most common adverse events leading to discontinuation of vancomycin hydrochloride were C. difficile colitis (< 1%), nausea (< 1%), and vomiting (< 1%). Ototoxicity Cases of hearing loss associated with intravenously administered vancomycin have been reported. Most of these patients had kidney dysfunction or a preexisting hearing loss or were receiving concomitant treatment with an ototoxic drug. Vertigo, dizziness, and tinnitus have been reported rarely. Hematopoietic Reversible neutropenia, usually starting 1 week or more after onset of intravenous therapy with vancomycin or after a total dosage of more than 25 g, has been reported for several dozen patients. Neutropenia appears to be promptly reversible when vancomycin is discontinued. Thrombocytopenia has rarely been reported. Miscellaneous Patients have been reported to have had anaphylaxis, drug fever, nausea, chills, eosinophilia, rashes including exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (see WARNINGS, Severe Dermatologic Reactions ), and vasculitis in association with the administration of vancomycin. A condition has been reported that is similar to the IV-induced syndrome with symptoms consistent with anaphylactoid reactions, including hypotension, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, pruritus, flushing of the upper body (“Red Man Syndrome”), pain and muscle spasm of the chest and back. These reactions usually resolve within 20 minutes but may persist for several hours. Post Marketing Reports Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) (see WARNINGS, Severe Dermatologic Reactions ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-855-204-1431 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Adults Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution is used in treating antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis caused by C. difficile and staphylococcal enterocolitis. Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution is not effective by the oral route for other types of infections. The usual adult total daily dosage is 500 mg to 2 g administered orally in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. Pediatric Patients The usual daily dosage is 40 mg/kg in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. The total daily dosage should not exceed 2 g.
HOW SUPPLIED Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution USP equivalent to 250 mg per 5 mL vancomycin is available as: 80 mL bottle (4 g*) NDC 62559-830-80 150 mL bottle (7.5 g*) NDC 62559-830-55 300 mL bottle (15 g*) NDC 62559-830-03 * Equivalent to vancomycin Store at refrigerated conditions, 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F). After mixing, refrigerate and use within two weeks. Shake well before using. Keep tightly closed. Manufactured by: ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Baudette, MN 56623 10192 Rev 12/25 logo
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE VANCOCIN is indicated for the treatment of Clostridioides difficil e-associated diarrhea. VANCOCIN is also used for the treatment of enterocolitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant strains) in adult and pediatric patients less than 18 years of age. Limitations of Use • Parenteral administration of vancomycin is not effective for the above infections; therefore, VANCOCIN must be given orally for these infections. • Orally administered VANCOCIN is not effective for other types of infections. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of VANCOCIN and other antibacterial drugs, VANCOCIN 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. VANCOCIN is a glycopeptide antibacterial indicated in adult and pediatric patients (less than 18 years of age) for the treatment of: ( 1 ) • Clostridioides difficile -associated diarrhea • Enterocolitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant strains) Limitations of Use: ( 1 ) ( 5.1 ) • Parenteral administration of vancomycin is not effective for the above infections; therefore, vancocin must be given orally for these infections. • Orally administered VANCOCIN is not effective for other types of infections. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of VANCOCIN and other antibacterial drugs, VANCOCIN should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria. ( 1 )
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • C. difficile- associated diarrhea: • Adult Patients (18 years of age or greater): 125 mg orally 4 times daily for 10 days. ( 2.1 ) • Pediatric Patients (less than 18 years of age): 40 mg/kg in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. The total daily dosage should not exceed 2 g. ( 2.2 ) • Staphylococcal enterocolitis: • Adult Patients (18 years of age or greater): 500 mg to 2 g orally in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. ( 2.1 ) • Pediatric Patients (less than 18 years of age): 40 mg/kg in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. The total daily dosage should not exceed 2 g. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Adults VANCOCIN capsules are used in treating C. difficile -associated diarrhea and staphylococcal enterocolitis. • C. difficile- associated diarrhea: The recommended dose is 125 mg administered orally 4 times daily for 10 days. • Staphylococcal enterocolitis: Total daily dosage is 500 mg to 2 g administered orally in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. 2.2 Pediatric Patients (less than 18 years of age) For both C. difficile -associated diarrhea and staphylococcal enterocolitis, the usual daily dosage is 40 mg/kg in 3 or 4 divided doses for 7 to 10 days. The total daily dosage should not exceed 2 g.
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS VANCOCIN 125 mg (equivalent to vancomycin) capsules have an opaque blue cap and opaque brown body imprinted with “3125” on the cap and “VANCOCIN HCL 125 MG” on the body in white ink. VANCOCIN 250 mg (equivalent to vancomycin) capsules have an opaque blue cap and opaque lavender body imprinted with “3126” on the cap and “VANCOCIN HCL 250 MG” on the body in white ink. 125 mg capsules and 250 mg capsules ( 3 )
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • VANCOCIN must be given orally for treatment of staphylococcal enterocolitis and C. difficile -associated diarrhea. Orally administered VANCOCIN is not effective for other types of infections. ( 5.1 ) • Clinically significant serum concentrations have been reported in some patients who have taken multiple oral doses of VANCOCIN for active C. difficile -associated diarrhea. Monitoring of serum concentrations may be appropriate in some instances. ( 5.2 ) • Nephrotoxicity has occurred following oral VANCOCIN therapy and can occur either during or after completion of therapy. The risk is increased in geriatric patients. ( 5.3 ) Monitor renal function. • Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving VANCOCIN. ( 5.4 ) Assessment of auditory function may be appropriate in some instances. • Severe Dermatologic Reactions: Discontinue VANCOCIN at the first appearance of skin rashes, mucosal lesions, or blisters. ( 5.5 ) • Prescribing VANCOCIN 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. ( 5.6 ) 5.1 Oral Use Only VANCOCIN for the treatment of colitis is for oral use only and is not systemically absorbed. VANCOCIN must be given orally for treatment of staphylococcal enterocolitis and Clostridioides difficile- associated diarrhea. Orally administered VANCOCIN is not effective for other types of infections. Parenteral administration of vancomycin is not effective for treatment of staphylococcal enterocolitis and C. difficile -associated diarrhea. If parenteral vancomycin therapy is desired, use an intravenous preparation of vancomycin and consult the package insert accompanying that preparation. 5.2 Potential for Systemic Absorption Clinically significant serum concentrations have been reported in some patients who have taken multiple oral doses of VANCOCIN for active C. difficile -associated diarrhea. Some patients with inflammatory disorders of the intestinal mucosa also may have significant systemic absorption of vancomycin. These patients may be at risk for the development of adverse reactions associated with higher doses of VANCOCIN; therefore, monitoring of serum concentrations of vancomycin may be appropriate in some instances, e.g., in patients with renal insufficiency and/or colitis or in those receiving concomitant therapy with an aminoglycoside antibiotic. 5.3 Nephrotoxicity Nephrotoxicity (e.g., reports of renal failure, renal impairment, blood creatinine increased) has occurred following oral VANCOCIN therapy in randomized controlled clinical studies, and can occur either during or after completion of therapy. The risk of nephrotoxicity is increased in patients >65 years of age [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 )] . In patients >65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with VANCOCIN to detect potential vancomycin induced nephrotoxicity. 5.4 Ototoxicity Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin. It may be transient or permanent. It has been reported mostly in patients who have been given excessive intravenous doses, who have an underlying hearing loss, or who are receiving concomitant therapy with another ototoxic agent, such as an aminoglycoside.
city Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin. It may be transient or permanent. It has been reported mostly in patients who have been given excessive intravenous doses, who have an underlying hearing loss, or who are receiving concomitant therapy with another ototoxic agent, such as an aminoglycoside. Serial tests of auditory function may be helpful in order to minimize the risk of ototoxicity [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . 5.5 Severe Dermatologic Reactions Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) have been reported in association with the use of vancomycin. Cutaneous signs or symptoms reported include skin rashes, mucosal lesions, and blisters. Discontinue VANCOCIN at the first appearance of signs and symptoms of TEN, SJS, DRESS, AGEP, or LABD. 5.6 Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria Prescribing VANCOCIN in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug resistant bacteria.
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The most common adverse reactions (≥ 10%) were nausea (17%), abdominal pain (15%) , and hypokalemia (13%). ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-855-204-1431 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described below reflect exposure to VANCOCIN in 260 adult subjects in two Phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of diarrhea associated with C. difficile. In both trials, subjects received VANCOCIN 125 mg orally four times daily. The mean duration of treatment was 9.4 days. The median age of patients was 67, ranging between 19 and 96 years of age. Patients were predominantly Caucasian (93%) and 52% were male. Adverse reactions occurring in ≥5% of VANCOCIN-treated subjects are shown in Table 1 . The most common adverse reactions associated with VANCOCIN (≥10%) were nausea, abdominal pain, and hypokalemia. Table 1: Common (≥5%) Adverse Reactions a for VANCOCIN Reported in Clinical Trials for Treatment of Diarrhea Associated with C. difficile a Adverse reaction rates were derived from the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events. System/Organ Class Adverse Reaction VANCOCIN % (N=260) Gastrointestinal disorders Nausea Abdominal pain Vomiting Diarrhea Flatulence 17 15 9 9 8 General disorders and administration site conditions Pyrexia Edema peripheral Fatigue 9 6 5 Infections and infestations Urinary tract infection 8 Metabolism and nutrition disorders Hypokalemia 13 Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Back pain 6 Nervous system disorders Headache 7 Nephrotoxicity (e.g., reports of renal failure, renal impairment, blood creatinine increased) occurred in 5% of subjects treated with VANCOCIN. Nephrotoxicity following VANCOCIN typically first occurred within one week after completion of treatment (median day of onset was Day 16). Nephrotoxicity following VANCOCIN occurred in 6% of subjects >65 years of age and 3% of subjects ≤65 years of age [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . The incidences of hypokalemia, urinary tract infection, peripheral edema, insomnia, constipation, anemia, depression, vomiting, and hypotension were higher among subjects >65 years of age than in subjects ≤65 years of age [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 )] . Discontinuation of study drug due to adverse events occurred in 7% of subjects treated with VANCOCIN. The most common adverse events leading to discontinuation of VANCOCIN were C. difficile colitis (<1%), nausea (<1%), and vomiting (<1%). 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of VANCOCIN. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Ototoxicity : Cases of hearing loss associated with intravenously administered vancomycin have been reported. Most of these patients had kidney dysfunction or a preexisting hearing loss or were receiving concomitant treatment with an ototoxic drug [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . Vertigo, dizziness, and tinnitus have been reported.
f hearing loss associated with intravenously administered vancomycin have been reported. Most of these patients had kidney dysfunction or a preexisting hearing loss or were receiving concomitant treatment with an ototoxic drug [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . Vertigo, dizziness, and tinnitus have been reported. Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] , rashes (including exfoliative dermatitis). Hematopoietic : Reversible neutropenia, usually starting 1 week or more after onset of intravenous therapy with vancomycin or after a total dose of more than 25 g, has been reported for several dozen patients. Neutropenia appears to be promptly reversible when vancomycin is discontinued. Thrombocytopenia has been reported. Miscellaneous : Patients have been reported to have had anaphylaxis, drug fever, chills, nausea, eosinophilia, and cases of vasculitis in association with the administration of vancomycin. A condition has been reported that is similar to the IV-induced syndrome with symptoms consistent with anaphylactoid reactions, including hypotension, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, pruritus, flushing of the upper body (“vancomycin infusion reaction”), pain and muscle spasm of the chest and back. These reactions usually resolve within 20 minutes but may persist for several hours.
<table ID="_Reft1" styleCode="Noautorules" width="70%"><caption>Table 1: Common (≥5%) Adverse Reactions<sup>a</sup> for VANCOCIN Reported in Clinical Trials for Treatment of Diarrhea Associated with C. difficile </caption><col width="30%"/><col width="30%"/><col width="21%"/><tfoot><tr><td align="left" colspan="3" valign="top"><sup>a</sup> Adverse reaction rates were derived from the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events. </td></tr></tfoot><tbody><tr><td styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">System/Organ Class</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Adverse Reaction</content></paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">VANCOCIN</content> <content styleCode="bold">% (N=260)</content></paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Gastrointestinal disorders</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Nausea Abdominal pain Vomiting Diarrhea Flatulence</paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>17 15 9 9 8</paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">General disorders and administration site conditions</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Pyrexia Edema peripheral Fatigue </paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>9 6 5 </paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Infections and infestations</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Urinary tract infection </paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>8 </paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Metabolism and nutrition disorders</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Hypokalemia </paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>13 </paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>Back pain </paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>6 </paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Nervous system disorders</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>Headache</paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>7</paragraph></td></tr></tbody></table>
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Geriatrics: In patients >65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with VANCOCIN to detect potential vancomycin induced nephrotoxicity. ( 5.3 ) ( 6.1 ) ( 8.5 ) ( 14.1 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Systemic absorption of vancomycin is low following oral administration of VANCOCIN; however, absorption may vary depending on various factors [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . There are no available data on vancomycin use in pregnant women to assess a risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Available published data on intravenous vancomycin use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data) . Vancomycin 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 (see Data) . Data Human Data There are no available data on first trimester use of vancomycin in pregnant women to assess a risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of 10 pregnant intravenous drug users treated with intravenous vancomycin for suspected or documented methicillin-resistant Staphylococcal aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 uninfected non-intravenous drug-dependent patients who received no treatment and 10 uninfected untreated intravenous drug-dependent patients. 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 culture and a high-risk penicillin allergy with resistance to clindamycin or unknown sensitivity who were administered intravenous vancomycin at the time of delivery. Vancomycin dosing ranged from the standard dose of 1 g intravenously every 12 hours to a dose of 20 mg/kg intravenously 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 malformation when administered intravenously during organogenesis to pregnant rats (gestation days 6 to 15) and rabbits (gestation days 6 to 18) at the equivalent recommended maximum human dose of 200 mg/kg/day to rats or 120 mg/kg/day 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 0.8 880 mg/m2 or 0.74 times the recommended maximum human dose based on body surface area). Maternal toxicity was observed in rats (at doses 120 mg/kg and above) and rabbits (at 80 mg/kg and above). 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of vancomycin in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effect on milk production following oral administration. Systemic absorption of vancomycin is low following oral administration of VANCOCIN [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] ; therefore, it is unlikely to result in clinically relevant exposure in breastfeeding infants.
lk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effect on milk production following oral administration. Systemic absorption of vancomycin is low following oral administration of VANCOCIN [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] ; therefore, it is unlikely to result in clinically relevant exposure in breastfeeding infants. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for VANCOCIN and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from VANCOCIN or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use VANCOCIN is indicated in pediatric patients less than 18 years of age for the treatment of C. difficile -associated diarrhea and enterocolitis caused by S. aureus (including methicillin-resistant strains) [see Indications and Usage ( 1 ) and Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 )] . 8.5 Geriatric Use In clinical trials, 54% of VANCOCIN-treated subjects were >65 years of age. Of these, 40% were between the ages of >65 and 75, and 60% were >75 years of age. Clinical studies with VANCOCIN in diarrhea associated with Clostridioides difficile have demonstrated that geriatric subjects are at increased risk of developing nephrotoxicity following treatment with oral VANCOCIN, which may occur during or after completion of therapy. In patients >65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with VANCOCIN to detect potential vancomycin induced nephrotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] . Patients >65 years of age may take longer to respond to therapy compared to patients ≤65 years of age [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] . Clinicians should be aware of the importance of appropriate duration of VANCOCIN treatment in patients >65 years of age and not discontinue or switch to alternative treatment prematurely.
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Systemic absorption of vancomycin is low following oral administration of VANCOCIN; however, absorption may vary depending on various factors [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . There are no available data on vancomycin use in pregnant women to assess a risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Available published data on intravenous vancomycin use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data) . Vancomycin 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 (see Data) . Data Human Data There are no available data on first trimester use of vancomycin in pregnant women to assess a risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of 10 pregnant intravenous drug users treated with intravenous vancomycin for suspected or documented methicillin-resistant Staphylococcal aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 uninfected non-intravenous drug-dependent patients who received no treatment and 10 uninfected untreated intravenous drug-dependent patients. 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 culture and a high-risk penicillin allergy with resistance to clindamycin or unknown sensitivity who were administered intravenous vancomycin at the time of delivery. Vancomycin dosing ranged from the standard dose of 1 g intravenously every 12 hours to a dose of 20 mg/kg intravenously 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 malformation when administered intravenously during organogenesis to pregnant rats (gestation days 6 to 15) and rabbits (gestation days 6 to 18) at the equivalent recommended maximum human dose of 200 mg/kg/day to rats or 120 mg/kg/day 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 0.8 880 mg/m2 or 0.74 times the recommended maximum human dose based on body surface area). Maternal toxicity was observed in rats (at doses 120 mg/kg and above) and rabbits (at 80 mg/kg and above).
8.4 Pediatric Use VANCOCIN is indicated in pediatric patients less than 18 years of age for the treatment of C. difficile -associated diarrhea and enterocolitis caused by S. aureus (including methicillin-resistant strains) [see Indications and Usage ( 1 ) and Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 )] .
8.5 Geriatric Use In clinical trials, 54% of VANCOCIN-treated subjects were >65 years of age. Of these, 40% were between the ages of >65 and 75, and 60% were >75 years of age. Clinical studies with VANCOCIN in diarrhea associated with Clostridioides difficile have demonstrated that geriatric subjects are at increased risk of developing nephrotoxicity following treatment with oral VANCOCIN, which may occur during or after completion of therapy. In patients >65 years of age, including those with normal renal function prior to treatment, renal function should be monitored during and following treatment with VANCOCIN to detect potential vancomycin induced nephrotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] . Patients >65 years of age may take longer to respond to therapy compared to patients ≤65 years of age [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] . Clinicians should be aware of the importance of appropriate duration of VANCOCIN treatment in patients >65 years of age and not discontinue or switch to alternative treatment prematurely.
10 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. To obtain current information about the treatment of overdose, contact a certified Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222 or www.poison.org). In managing overdosage, consider the possibility of multiple drug overdoses, interaction among drugs, and unusual drug kinetics.
11 DESCRIPTION VANCOCIN capsules for oral administration contain chromatographically purified vancomycin hydrochloride, a tricyclic glycopeptide antibiotic derived from Amycolatopsis orientalis (formerly Nocardia orientalis ), which has the chemical formula C 66 H 75 Cl 2 N 9 O 24 •HCl. The molecular weight of vancomycin hydrochloride is 1485.73; 500 mg of the base is equivalent to 0.34 mmol. Each capsule contains 125 mg vancomycin (equivalent to 128 mg vancomycin hydrochloride) or 250 mg vancomycin (equivalent to 256 mg vancomycin hydrochloride). The capsules also contain FD&C Blue No. 2, gelatin, iron oxide, polyethylene glycol, titanium dioxide, and other inactive ingredients. Vancomycin hydrochloride has the structural formula: chemical structure
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Vancomycin is an antibacterial drug [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] . 12.3 Pharmacokinetics Vancomycin is poorly absorbed after oral administration. During multiple dosing of 250 mg every 8 hours for 7 doses, fecal concentrations of vancomycin in volunteers exceeded 100 mg/kg in the majority of samples. No blood concentrations were detected and urinary recovery did not exceed 0.76%. In anephric subjects with no inflammatory bowel disease who received vancomycin oral solution 2 g for 16 days, blood concentrations of vancomycin were less than or equal to 0.66 mcg/mL in 2 of 5 subjects. No measurable blood concentrations were attained in the other 3 subjects. Following doses of 2 g daily, concentrations of drug were >3100 mg/kg in the feces and <1 mcg/mL in the serum of subjects with normal renal function who had C. difficile- associated diarrhea. After multiple-dose oral administration of vancomycin, measurable serum concentrations may occur in patients with active C. difficile -associated diarrhea, and, in the presence of renal impairment, the possibility of accumulation exists. It should be noted that the total systemic and renal clearances of vancomycin are reduced in the elderly [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 )] . 12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of action The bactericidal action of vancomycin against Staphylococcus aureus and the vegetative cells of Clostridioides difficile results primarily from inhibition of cell-wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial-cell-membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. Resistance Staphylococcus aureus S. aureus isolates with vancomycin minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) as high as 1024 mcg/mL have been reported. The exact mechanism of this resistance is not clear but is believed to be due to cell wall thickening and potentially the transfer of genetic material. Clostridioides difficile Isolates of C. difficile generally have vancomycin MICs of <1 mcg/mL, however vancomycin MICs ranging from 4 mcg/mL to 16 mcg/mL have been reported. The mechanism which mediates C. difficile's decreased susceptibility to vancomycin has not been fully elucidated. Vancomycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections [see Indications and Usage ( 1 )] . Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant isolates ) associated with enterocolitis. Anaerobic gram-positive bacteria Clostridioides difficile isolates associated with C. difficile associated diarrhea.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics Vancomycin is poorly absorbed after oral administration. During multiple dosing of 250 mg every 8 hours for 7 doses, fecal concentrations of vancomycin in volunteers exceeded 100 mg/kg in the majority of samples. No blood concentrations were detected and urinary recovery did not exceed 0.76%. In anephric subjects with no inflammatory bowel disease who received vancomycin oral solution 2 g for 16 days, blood concentrations of vancomycin were less than or equal to 0.66 mcg/mL in 2 of 5 subjects. No measurable blood concentrations were attained in the other 3 subjects. Following doses of 2 g daily, concentrations of drug were >3100 mg/kg in the feces and <1 mcg/mL in the serum of subjects with normal renal function who had C. difficile- associated diarrhea. After multiple-dose oral administration of vancomycin, measurable serum concentrations may occur in patients with active C. difficile -associated diarrhea, and, in the presence of renal impairment, the possibility of accumulation exists. It should be noted that the total systemic and renal clearances of vancomycin are reduced in the elderly [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 )] .
12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of action The bactericidal action of vancomycin against Staphylococcus aureus and the vegetative cells of Clostridioides difficile results primarily from inhibition of cell-wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial-cell-membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. Resistance Staphylococcus aureus S. aureus isolates with vancomycin minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) as high as 1024 mcg/mL have been reported. The exact mechanism of this resistance is not clear but is believed to be due to cell wall thickening and potentially the transfer of genetic material. Clostridioides difficile Isolates of C. difficile generally have vancomycin MICs of <1 mcg/mL, however vancomycin MICs ranging from 4 mcg/mL to 16 mcg/mL have been reported. The mechanism which mediates C. difficile's decreased susceptibility to vancomycin has not been fully elucidated. Vancomycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections [see Indications and Usage ( 1 )] . Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant isolates ) associated with enterocolitis. Anaerobic gram-positive bacteria Clostridioides difficile isolates associated with C. difficile associated diarrhea.
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility No long-term carcinogenesis studies in animals have been conducted. At concentrations up to 1000 mcg/mL, vancomycin had no mutagenic effect in vitro in the mouse lymphoma forward mutation assay or the primary rat hepatocyte unscheduled DNA synthesis assay. The concentrations tested in vitro were above the peak plasma vancomycin concentrations of 20 to 40 mcg/mL usually achieved in humans after slow infusion of the maximum recommended dose of 1 g. Vancomycin had no mutagenic effect in vivo in the Chinese hamster sister chromatid exchange assay (400 mg/kg IP) or the mouse micronucleus assay (800 mg/kg IP). No definitive fertility studies have been conducted.
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility No long-term carcinogenesis studies in animals have been conducted. At concentrations up to 1000 mcg/mL, vancomycin had no mutagenic effect in vitro in the mouse lymphoma forward mutation assay or the primary rat hepatocyte unscheduled DNA synthesis assay. The concentrations tested in vitro were above the peak plasma vancomycin concentrations of 20 to 40 mcg/mL usually achieved in humans after slow infusion of the maximum recommended dose of 1 g. Vancomycin had no mutagenic effect in vivo in the Chinese hamster sister chromatid exchange assay (400 mg/kg IP) or the mouse micronucleus assay (800 mg/kg IP). No definitive fertility studies have been conducted.
14 CLINICAL STUDIES 14.1 Diarrhea Associated with Clostridioides difficile In two trials, VANCOCIN 125 mg orally four times daily for 10 days was evaluated in 266 adult subjects with C. difficile -associated diarrhea (CDAD). Enrolled subjects were 18 years of age or older and received no more than 48 hours of treatment with oral VANCOCIN or oral/intravenous metronidazole in the 5 days preceding enrollment. CDAD was defined as ≥3 loose or watery bowel movements within the 24 hours preceding enrollment, and the presence of either C. difficile toxin A or B, or pseudomembranes on endoscopy within the 72 hours preceding enrollment. Subjects with fulminant C. difficile disease, sepsis with hypotension, ileus, peritoneal signs or severe hepatic disease were excluded. Efficacy analyses were performed on the Full Analysis Set (FAS), which included randomized subjects who received at least one dose of VANCOCIN and had any post-dosing investigator evaluation data (N=259; 134 in Trial 1 and 125 in Trial 2). The demographic profile and baseline CDAD characteristics of enrolled subjects were similar in the two trials. VANCOCIN-treated subjects had a median age of 67 years, were mainly white (93%), and male (52%). CDAD was classified as severe (defined as 10 or more unformed bowel movements per day or WBC ≥15000/mm 3 ) in 25% of subjects, and 47% were previously treated for CDAD. Efficacy was assessed by using clinical success, defined as diarrhea resolution and the absence of severe abdominal discomfort due to CDAD, on Day 10. An additional efficacy endpoint was the time to resolution of diarrhea, defined as the beginning of diarrhea resolution that was sustained through the end of the prescribed active treatment period. The results for clinical success for VANCOCIN-treated subjects in both trials are shown in Table 2 . Table 2: Clinical Success Rates (Full Analysis Set) Clinical Success Rate 95% Confidence Interval VANCOCIN % (N) Trial 1 81.3 (134) (74.4, 88.3) Trial 2 80.8 (125) (73.5, 88.1) The median time to resolution of diarrhea was 5 days and 4 days in Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively. For subjects older than 65 years of age, the median time to resolution was 6 days and 4 days in Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively. In subjects with diarrhea resolution at end-of-treatment with VANCOCIN, recurrence of CDAD during the following four weeks occurred in 25 of 107 (23%) and 18 of 102 (18%) in Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively. Restriction Endonuclease Analysis (REA) was used to identify C. difficile baseline isolates in the BI group. In Trial 1, the Vancocin-treated subjects were classified at baseline as follows 31 (23%) with BI strain, 69 (52%) with non-BI strain, and 34 (25%) with unknown strain. Clinical success rates were 87% for BI strain, 81% for non-BI strain, and 76% for unknown strain. In subjects with diarrhea resolution at end-of-treatment with VANCOCIN, recurrence of CDAD during the following four weeks occurred in 7 of 26 subjects with BI strain, 12 of 56 subjects with non-BI strain, and 6 of 25 subjects with unknown strain.
<table ID="_Reft2" styleCode="Noautorules" width="70%"><caption>Table 2: Clinical Success Rates (Full Analysis Set) </caption><col width="17%"/><col width="33%"/><col width="30%"/><tbody><tr><td rowspan="2" styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"/><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Clinical Success Rate</content></paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">95% Confidence Interval</content></paragraph></td></tr><tr><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">VANCOCIN % (N)</content></paragraph></td><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"/></tr><tr><td styleCode="Rrule Lrule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Trial 1</content></paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>81.3 (134) </paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Lrule Toprule Botrule " valign="top"><paragraph>(74.4, 88.3) </paragraph></td></tr><tr><td styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph><content styleCode="bold">Trial 2</content></paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>80.8 (125) </paragraph></td><td align="center" styleCode="Rrule Botrule Lrule Toprule " valign="top"><paragraph>(73.5, 88.1) </paragraph></td></tr></tbody></table>
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING VANCOCIN (vancomycin hydrochloride) capsules USP are available in: The 125 mg (equivalent to vancomycin) capsules have an opaque blue cap and opaque brown body imprinted with “3125” on the cap and “VANCOCIN HCL 125 MG” on the body in white ink. A carton contains 2 blister packs. Each blister pack contains 10 capsules for a total of 20 capsules per carton. NDC 62559-310-20. The 250 mg (equivalent to vancomycin) capsules have an opaque blue cap and opaque lavender body imprinted with “3126” on the cap and “VANCOCIN HCL 250 MG” on the body in white ink. A carton contains 2 blister packs. Each blister pack contains 10 capsules for a total of 20 capsules per carton. NDC 62559-311-20. Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F); excursions permitted from 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Severe Dermatologic Reactions Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop taking VANCOCIN immediately and promptly seek medical attention at the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions or blisters [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )]. Antibacterial Resistance Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including VANCOCIN should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When VANCOCIN 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 VANCOCIN or other antibacterial drugs in the future. VANCOCIN ® is a registered U.S. trademark owned by ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Distributed by: ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Baudette, MN 56623 ani
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is a glycopeptide antibacterial indicated in adult and pediatric patients (neonates 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 hydrochloride for injection and other antibacterial drugs, vancomycin hydrochloride for 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 hydrochloride for injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 hydrochloride for injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 hydrochloride for 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 hydrochloride for injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 hydrochloride for injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 hydrochloride for injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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 hydrochloride for injection is indicated in adults and pediatric patients (neonates 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.
ic patients (neonates 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 hydrochloride for injection and other antibacterial drugs, vancomycin hydrochloride for 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.
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Administer vancomycin hydrochloride for injection in a diluted solution over 60 minutes or greater to reduce the risk of infusion reactions. See full prescribing information for further important administration and preparation instructions ( 2.1 , 2.5 ) 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 ) Neonates: See full prescribing information for recommended doses in neonates ( 2.3 ) Patients with renal impairment: See full prescribing information for recommended doses in patients with renal impairment ( 2.4 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions To reduce the risk of infusion related adverse reactions, administer vancomycin hydrochloride for injection in a diluted solution over 60 minutes or greater [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . Vancomycin hydrochloride for 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) ] . In selected patients in need of fluid restriction, a concentration up to 10 mg/mL may be used [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Administer vancomycin hydrochloride for injection prior to intravenous anesthetic agents to reduce the risk of infusion related adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Administer vancomycin hydrochloride by a secure intravenous route of administration to avoid local irritation and phlebitis reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] . The supplied lyophilized powder must be reconstituted and subsequently diluted prior to intravenous use [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ]. 2.2 Dosage in Adult Patients With Normal Renal Function The usual daily intravenous dose is 2 grams divided either as 500 mg every 6 hours or 1 g every 12 hours. Administer each dose 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. 2.3 Dosage in Pediatric Patients With Normal Renal Function Pediatric Patients (Aged 1 month and older) 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. Neonates (Up to 1 month old ) In pediatric patients, up to the age of 1 month, the total daily intravenous dosage may be lower. In neonates, an initial dose of 15 mg/kg is suggested, followed by 10 mg/kg every 12 hours for neonates in the 1 st week of life and every 8 hours thereafter up to the age of 1 month. Each dose should be administered over 60 minutes. In premature infants, vancomycin clearance decreases as postconceptional age decreases. Therefore, longer dosing intervals may be necessary in premature infants. Close monitoring of serum concentrations of vancomycin is recommended 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 premature infants and the elderly, greater dosage reductions than expected may be necessary because of decreased renal function.
s 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 premature infants and 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 hr should be given after the initial dose of 15 mg/kg. 2.5 Preparation of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection for Intravenous Administration and Storage Instructions Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection must be reconstituted and further diluted. Reconstitution of the Lyophilized Powder and further dilution At the time of use, reconstitute the vials of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection (lyophilized powder) with sterile water for injection to a concentration of 50 mg of vancomycin/mL then further dilute with an infusion solution to a final concentration of 5 mg/mL (see Table 1 for the appropriate volumes). Discard any reconstituted solution remaining in the vial. Table 1 Volume of Sterile Water for Injection to be Added for Reconstitution and Volume of Infusion Solution to be Used for Further Dilution Vancomycin Strength per Vial Volume of Sterile Water for Injection for reconstitution a Volume of infusion solution b to further dilute to a final concentration of 5 mg/mL 1.25 g 25 mL 250 mL 1.5 g 30 mL 300 mL a After reconstitution, the vials may be stored in a refrigerator for 14 days without significant loss of potency. b Use an infusion solution from the list of the compatible infusion solutions below [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ] . The desired dose diluted in this manner should be administered by intermittent IV infusion over a period of 60 minutes or greater. Parenteral drug products should be visually inspected for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Discard reconstituted and diluted solutions 14 days after initial reconstitution. 2.6 Compatibility with Intravenous Fluids The following diluents are physically and chemically compatible with 5 g/L vancomycin hydrochloride: 5% Dextrose Injection, USP 5% Dextrose Injection and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Lactated Ringer’s Injection, USP Lactated Ringer’s and 5% Dextrose Injection, USP 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Storage of Diluted Solutions: Solutions that are diluted with 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP may be stored in a refrigerator for 14 days without significant loss of potency. Solutions that are diluted with the following infusion fluids may be stored in a refrigerator for 96 hours: 5% Dextrose Injection and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Lactated Ringer’s Injection, USP Lactated Ringer’s and 5% Dextrose Injection, USP 2.7 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. It is recommended to adequately flush the intravenous lines between the administration of these antibacterial drugs. It is also recommended to dilute solutions of vancomycin to 5 mg/mL or less.
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, USP is a sterile lyophilized powder for injection supplied as an off-white to light tan colored plug or powder in single-dose vials containing vancomycin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 1.25 g or 1.5 g of vancomycin base. Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is a sterile lyophilized powder for injection in single-dose vials containing vancomycin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 1.25 g or 1.5 g of vancomycin base ( 3 )
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Infusion Reactions : Hypotension, including shock and cardiac arrest, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, muscular, chest pain and “vancomycin infusion reaction” 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 hydrochloride for injection in a diluted solution over a period of 60 minutes or greater and also prior to intravenous anesthetic agents. ( 2.1 , 5.1 ) 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. ( 5.2 ) Ototoxicity : Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin hydrochloride. 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. ( 5.3 ) Severe Dermatologic Reactions: Discontinue vancomycin hydrochloride for injection at the first appearance of skin rashes, mucosal lesions, or blisters ( 5.4 ). Clostridioides difficile- Associated Diarrhea : Evaluate patients if diarrhea occurs. ( 5.5 ) Neutropenia : Periodically monitor leukocyte count. ( 5.7 ) Phlebitis: To reduce the risk of local irritation and phlebitis administer vancomycin hydrochloride for injection by a secure intravenous route of administration. ( 5.8 ) Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria: Prescribing vancomycin hydrochloride for 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. ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Infusion Reactions Hypotension, including shock and cardiac arrest, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria, muscular and chest pain may occur with rapid vancomycin hydrochloride for 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 hydrochloride for injection may also be associated with “vancomycin infusion reaction”, 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 hydrochloride for injection in a diluted solution 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. 5.2 Nephrotoxicity Vancomycin hydrochloride for 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).
usion if a reaction occurs. 5.2 Nephrotoxicity Vancomycin hydrochloride for 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 hydrochloride for 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 hydrochloride for injection or reduce the dose. 5.3 Ototoxicity Ototoxicity has occurred in patients receiving vancomycin hydrochloride for injection. 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 hydrochloride for injection if ototoxicity occurs. Dosage of vancomycin hydrochloride for 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. 5.4 Severe Dermatologic Reactions Severe dermatologic reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) have been reported in association with the use of vancomycin. Cutaneous signs or symptoms reported include skin rashes, mucosal lesions, and blisters. Discontinue vancomycin hydrochloride for injection at the first appearance of signs and symptoms of TEN, SJS, DRESS, AGEP, or LABD. 5.5 Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea Clostridioides difficile- associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile . C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued.
who present with diarrhea following antibacterial use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial treatment of C. difficile , and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated. Clinically significant serum concentrations have been reported in some patients being treated for active C. difficile -induced pseudomembranous colitis after multiple oral doses of vancomycin. Prolonged use of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection may result in the overgrowth of nonsusceptible microorganisms. Careful observation of the patient is essential. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken. In rare instances, there have been reports of pseudomembranous colitis due to C. difficile developing in patients who received intravenous vancomycin hydrochloride for injection. 5.6 Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis (HORV) Hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis, including permanent loss of vision, occurred in patients receiving intracameral or intravitreal administration of vancomycin during or after cataract surgery. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administered by the intracameral or the intravitreal route have not been established by adequate and well-controlled trials. Vancomycin is not indicated for the prophylaxis of endophthalmitis. 5.7 Neutropenia Reversible neutropenia has been reported in patients receiving vancomycin hydrochloride for injection [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . Patients who will undergo prolonged therapy with vancomycin hydrochloride for injection or those who are receiving concomitant drugs which may cause neutropenia should have periodic monitoring of the leukocyte count. 5.8 Phlebitis and Other Administration Site Reactions Inflammation at the site of injection of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection has been reported. Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is irritating to tissue and must be given by a secure intravenous route of administration to reduce the risk of local irritation and phlebitis. Administration of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection by intramuscular (IM), intraperitoneal, intrathecal (intralumbar or intraventricular), or intravitreal routes has not been approved and is not recommended. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administered by the intrathecal (intralumbar or intraventricular) route or by the intraperitoneal route have not been established by adequate and well controlled trials. Pain, tenderness, and necrosis occur with IM injection of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection or with inadvertent extravasation. Thrombophlebitis may occur, the frequency and severity of which can be minimized by administering the drug slowly as a dilute solution (2.5 to 5 g/L) and by rotation of venous access sites. Intraperitoneal administration during continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) can result in chemical peritonitis. Manifestations range from cloudy dialysate alone to a cloudy dialysate accompanied by variable degrees of abdominal pain and fever. This syndrome appears to be resolve after discontinuation of intraperitoneal vancomycin. 5.9 Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria Prescribing vancomycin hydrochloride for injection in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Infusion Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Nephrotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Ototoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Neutropenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] The common adverse reactions are anaphylaxis, “vancomycin infusion reaction”, acute kidney Injury, hearing loss, neutropenia. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact XGen Pharmaceuticals DJB, Inc. at 1-866-390-4411 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 hydrochloride for injection were identified in clinical trials: Immune system disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and “vancomycin infusion reaction” [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] 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 (5.4) ] . 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 (5.5) ] 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 hydrochloride for injection is not approved for intramuscular and intraperitoneal administration) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] 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 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval 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 (5.4) ].
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Concomitant administration of vancomycin and anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . 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 ) See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION. 7.1 Anesthetic Agents Concomitant administration of vancomycin and anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) 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.
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no available data on vancomycin use in pregnant women to inform a drug associated risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Available published data on vancomycin use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy related outcomes (see Data) . Vancomycin 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 A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of pregnant intravenous drug users treated with vancomycin for suspected or documented methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus-aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 non-intravenous drug-dependent patients who received no treatment, and 10 untreated 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 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). 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are insufficient data to inform the levels of vancomycin in human milk. There are no data on the effects of vancomycin on the breastfed infant or milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for vancomycin and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from vancomycin or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is indicated in pediatric patients (neonates and older).
f breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for vancomycin and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from vancomycin or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is indicated in pediatric patients (neonates and older). In pediatric patients, monitor vancomycin serum concentration and renal function when administering vancomycin hydrochloride for 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 (5.1) ] . 8.5 Geriatric Use Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection 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) ] .
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no available data on vancomycin use in pregnant women to inform a drug associated risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Available published data on vancomycin use in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters have not shown an association with adverse pregnancy related outcomes (see Data) . Vancomycin 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 A published study evaluated hearing loss and nephrotoxicity in infants of pregnant intravenous drug users treated with vancomycin for suspected or documented methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus-aureus in the second or third trimester. The comparison groups were 10 non-intravenous drug-dependent patients who received no treatment, and 10 untreated 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 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).
8.4 Pediatric Use Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection is indicated in pediatric patients (neonates and older). In pediatric patients, monitor vancomycin serum concentration and renal function when administering vancomycin hydrochloride for 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 (5.1) ] .
8.5 Geriatric Use Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection 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) ] .
10 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 .
11 DESCRIPTION Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, USP, contains the hydrochloride salt of vancomycin, a tricyclic glycopeptide antibacterial derived from Amycolatopsis orientalis (formerly Nocardia orientalis ). The chemical name for vancomycin hydrochloride, USP is (S a )- (3 S ,6 R ,7 R ,22 R ,23 S ,26 S ,36 R ,38a R )-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-[(2 R )-4- methyl-2-(methylamino)valeramido]-2,5,24,38,39-pentaoxo-22 H -8,11:18,21-dietheno-23,36- (iminomethano)-13,16:31,35-dimetheno-1 H ,16 H -[l,6,9]oxadiazacyclohexadecino[4,5- m][10,2,16]-benzoxadiazacyclotetracosine-26-carboxylic acid, monohydrochloride. The molecular formula is C 66 H 75 Cl 2 N 9 O 24 • HCl and the molecular weight is 1,485.71. Vancomycin hydrochloride, USP has the following structural formula: Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, USP is a sterile off-white to light tan colored lyophilized plug or powder for injection. Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, USP is supplied in single-dose vials, containing 1.28 g or 1.54 g of vancomycin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 1.25 g or 1.5 g of vancomycin base. The lyophilized powder is reconstituted with sterile water for injection, USP which forms a clear, colorless or light to dark tan solution and subsequently diluted prior to intravenous administration [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ]. structure
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Vancomycin is an antibacterial drug [see Microbiology (12.4) ] . 12.2 Pharmacodynamics The pharmacodynamics of vancomycin is unknown. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics In subjects with normal kidney function, multiple intravenous dosing of 1 g of vancomycin (15 mg/kg) infused over 60 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of approximately 63 mcg/mL immediately after the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of approximately 23 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of approximately 8 mcg/mL 11 hours after the end of the infusion. Multiple dosing of 500 mg infused over 30 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of about 49 mcg/mL at the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of about 19 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL 6 hours after infusion. The plasma concentrations during multiple dosing are like those after a single dose. Distribution The volume of distribution ranges from 0.3 to 0.43 L/kg after intravenous administration. Vancomycin is approximately 55% serum protein bound as measured by ultrafiltration at vancomycin serum concentrations of 10 to 100 mcg/mL. After intravenous administration of vancomycin, inhibitory concentrations are present in pleural, pericardial, ascitic, and synovial fluids; in urine; in peritoneal dialysis fluid; and in atrial appendage tissue. Vancomycin does not readily diffuse across normal meninges into the spinal fluid; but, when the meninges are inflamed, penetration into the spinal fluid occurs. Elimination Mean plasma clearance is about 0.058 L/kg/h, and mean renal clearance is about 0.048 L/kg/h. The mean elimination half-life of vancomycin from plasma is 4 to 6 hours in subjects with normal renal function. In anephric patients, the mean elimination half-life is 7.5 days. Total body and renal clearance of vancomycin may be reduced in the elderly. Metabolism There is no apparent metabolism of the vancomycin. Excretion In the first 24 hours after intravenous administration, about 75% of an administered dose of vancomycin is excreted in urine by glomerular filtration. Renal impairment slows excretion of vancomycin. About 60% of an intraperitoneal dose of vancomycin administered during peritoneal dialysis is absorbed systemically in 6 hours. Serum concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL are achieved by intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg of vancomycin. However, the safety and efficacy of the intraperitoneal use of vancomycin has not been established in adequate and well-controlled trials [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . 12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of Action The bactericidal action of vancomycin results primarily from inhibition of cell-wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial-cell-membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. Resistance Vancomycin is not active in vitro against gram-negative bacilli, mycobacteria, or fungi. There is no cross-resistance between vancomycin and other antibacterials. Interaction With Other Antimicrobials The combination of vancomycin and an aminoglycoside acts synergistically in vitro against many isolates of Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus gallolyticus ( previously known as Streptococcus bovis) , enterococcus spp, and the viridans group streptococci.
nd other antibacterials. Interaction With Other Antimicrobials The combination of vancomycin and an aminoglycoside acts synergistically in vitro against many isolates of Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus gallolyticus ( previously known as Streptococcus bovis) , enterococcus spp, and the viridans group streptococci. Antimicrobial Activity Vancomycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections [see Indications and Usage (1) ]. Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria Corynebacterium spp. Enterococcus spp. (including Enterococcus faecalis ) Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible isolates) Coagulase negative staphylococci (including S. epidermidis and methicillin-resistant isolates) Streptococcus gallolyticus ( previously known as Streptococcus bovis) Viridans group streptococci The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. At least 90 percent of the following bacteria exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for vancomycin against isolates of similar genus or organism group. However, the efficacy of vancomycin in treating clinical infections caused by these bacteria has not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials. Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria Listeria monocytogenes Streptococcus pyogenes Streptococcus pneumoniae Streptococcus agalactiae Anaerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria Actinomyces species Lactobacillus species Susceptibility Testing For specific information regarding susceptibility test interpretive criteria and associated test methods and quality control standards recognized by FDA for this drug, please see: https: //www.fda.gov/STIC.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics In subjects with normal kidney function, multiple intravenous dosing of 1 g of vancomycin (15 mg/kg) infused over 60 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of approximately 63 mcg/mL immediately after the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of approximately 23 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of approximately 8 mcg/mL 11 hours after the end of the infusion. Multiple dosing of 500 mg infused over 30 minutes produces mean plasma concentrations of about 49 mcg/mL at the completion of infusion, mean plasma concentrations of about 19 mcg/mL 2 hours after infusion, and mean plasma concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL 6 hours after infusion. The plasma concentrations during multiple dosing are like those after a single dose. Distribution The volume of distribution ranges from 0.3 to 0.43 L/kg after intravenous administration. Vancomycin is approximately 55% serum protein bound as measured by ultrafiltration at vancomycin serum concentrations of 10 to 100 mcg/mL. After intravenous administration of vancomycin, inhibitory concentrations are present in pleural, pericardial, ascitic, and synovial fluids; in urine; in peritoneal dialysis fluid; and in atrial appendage tissue. Vancomycin does not readily diffuse across normal meninges into the spinal fluid; but, when the meninges are inflamed, penetration into the spinal fluid occurs. Elimination Mean plasma clearance is about 0.058 L/kg/h, and mean renal clearance is about 0.048 L/kg/h. The mean elimination half-life of vancomycin from plasma is 4 to 6 hours in subjects with normal renal function. In anephric patients, the mean elimination half-life is 7.5 days. Total body and renal clearance of vancomycin may be reduced in the elderly. Metabolism There is no apparent metabolism of the vancomycin. Excretion In the first 24 hours after intravenous administration, about 75% of an administered dose of vancomycin is excreted in urine by glomerular filtration. Renal impairment slows excretion of vancomycin. About 60% of an intraperitoneal dose of vancomycin administered during peritoneal dialysis is absorbed systemically in 6 hours. Serum concentrations of about 10 mcg/mL are achieved by intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg of vancomycin. However, the safety and efficacy of the intraperitoneal use of vancomycin has not been established in adequate and well-controlled trials [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] .
12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of Action The bactericidal action of vancomycin results primarily from inhibition of cell-wall biosynthesis. In addition, vancomycin alters bacterial-cell-membrane permeability and RNA synthesis. Resistance Vancomycin is not active in vitro against gram-negative bacilli, mycobacteria, or fungi. There is no cross-resistance between vancomycin and other antibacterials. Interaction With Other Antimicrobials The combination of vancomycin and an aminoglycoside acts synergistically in vitro against many isolates of Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus gallolyticus ( previously known as Streptococcus bovis) , enterococcus spp, and the viridans group streptococci. Antimicrobial Activity Vancomycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections [see Indications and Usage (1) ]. Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria Corynebacterium spp. Enterococcus spp. (including Enterococcus faecalis ) Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible isolates) Coagulase negative staphylococci (including S. epidermidis and methicillin-resistant isolates) Streptococcus gallolyticus ( previously known as Streptococcus bovis) Viridans group streptococci The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. At least 90 percent of the following bacteria exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for vancomycin against isolates of similar genus or organism group. However, the efficacy of vancomycin in treating clinical infections caused by these bacteria has not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials. Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria Listeria monocytogenes Streptococcus pyogenes Streptococcus pneumoniae Streptococcus agalactiae Anaerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria Actinomyces species Lactobacillus species Susceptibility Testing For specific information regarding susceptibility test interpretive criteria and associated test methods and quality control standards recognized by FDA for this drug, please see: https: //www.fda.gov/STIC.
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Although no long-term studies in animals have been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential, no mutagenic potential of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection was found in standard laboratory tests. No definitive fertility studies have been performed. 13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology In animal studies, hypotension and bradycardia occurred in dogs receiving an intravenous infusion of vancomycin hydrochloride 25 mg/kg, at a concentration of 25 mg/mL and an infusion rate of 13.3 mL/min.
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Although no long-term studies in animals have been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential, no mutagenic potential of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection was found in standard laboratory tests. No definitive fertility studies have been performed.
13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology In animal studies, hypotension and bradycardia occurred in dogs receiving an intravenous infusion of vancomycin hydrochloride 25 mg/kg, at a concentration of 25 mg/mL and an infusion rate of 13.3 mL/min.
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING How Supplied: Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, USP is a sterile lyophilized powder for injection supplied as an off-white to light tan colored powder or plug in single-dose flip top vials that contain vancomycin hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 1.25 g or 1.5 g of vancomycin base. They are available as follows: NDC No. 39822-0460-2: Vancomycin hydrochloride for injection, USP equivalent to 1.25 g vancomycin in a 30 mL flip top vial with a dark grey matte finish seal, in packages of 10 vials. NDC No. 39822-0470-2: Vancomycin Hhydrochloride for injection, USP equivalent to 1.5 g vancomycin in a 30 mL flip top vial with a violet matte finish seal, in packages of 10 vials. Storage: Prior to reconstitution, store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION 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 intravenous infusion of vancomycin hydrochloride for injection. These reactions can be lessened or prevented by infusing the drug over at least 60 minutes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Acute Kidney Injury Advise patients that vancomycin hydrochloride for 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 (5.2) ]. Hearing Loss or Balance Problems Advise patients that vancomycin hydrochloride for injection may result in decreased hearing and to report hearing loss or balance problems to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. Severe Dermatologic Reactions Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop vancomycin hydrochloride for injection immediately and promptly seek medical attention at the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions or blisters [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Antibacterial Resistance Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including vancomycin hydrochloride for injection should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When vancomycin hydrochloride for injection 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 hydrochloride for injection or other antibacterial drugs in the future. 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 (5.5) ]. Manufactured for: XGen Pharmaceuticals DJB, Inc. Big Flats, NY 1814 Manufactured by: Steriscience Sp, z.o.o. No. 10, Daniszewska Street, Warsaw, Poland-03-230 Revised 08/2025 VANC-PI-00