Selected Antimicrobial Information – Companion Animal
Vancomycin [Companion]
Restriction Status
Protected
Dose
| Species | Usage | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Cats |
For life-threatening systemic infections | 15mg/kg IV q6-8h, given slowly (over 30-60min) or 3.5mg/kg IV once, followed by 1.5mg/kg/hr CRI (extra-label use) |
| For C. difficile enteritis |
10-20mg/kg PO q6h for 7d (extra-label use) | |
| Dogs |
For life-threatening systemic infections | 15mg/kg IV q6-8h, given slowly (over 30-60min) or 3.5mg/kg IV once, followed by 1.5mg/kg/hr CRI (extra-label use) |
| For C. difficile enteritis | 10-20mg/kg PO q6h for 7d (extra-label use) |
Brand Name(s)
Vancocin®
Background
Vancomycin is a bactericidal, concentration-dependent glycopeptide antibiotic with a narrow spectrum of activity against Gram-positive aerobes. Clostridium spp. are also susceptible. Many Staphylococcus spp. and Enterococcus spp. that are resistant to other antimicrobials will be susceptible to vancomycin; use should be strictly reserved for infections caused by organisms that are resistant to other antimicrobial choices. Vancomycin must be given IV since it is poorly bioavailable; when given PO, vancomycin stays within the gastrointestinal tract. Tissue distribution is poor, and parenterally administered vancomycin is primarily excreted in urine
Acceptable Uses
- Treatment of multidrug resistant, Gram-positive infections causing life-threatening, systemic disease. Culture and susceptibility must be performed prior to use.
- Treatment of metronidazole-resistant Clostridium difficile enteritis, when given PO. Culture and susceptibility must be performed prior to use.
Unacceptable Uses
- Empiric use.
Formulations Available within the OSU Pharmacy
- Vancomycin 500mg/10ml injectable suspension
Notes
- Vancomycin use in animals is highly controversial, and should only be considered as a last resort when other antimicrobial treatment options have been ruled out.
- Vancomycin is on the protected antimicrobial list for the OSU-VMC, and approval must be obtained from the Antimicrobial Stewardship Working Group prior to prescribing.
