broad spectrum for gram +ve organisms

not active against gram -ve

• treatment of serious infections caused by susceptible organisms resistant to penicillins (MRSA and multi-resistant S. epidermidis, MRSE) or in people with serious allergy to penicillins
• Clostridioides difficile associated disease (relapse or unresponsive to metronidazole treatment)
• antibacterial prophylaxis for endocarditis before certain procedures in penicillin-hypersensitive people at high risk
• surgical prophylaxis for major procedures involving implantation of prostheses (eg cardiac and vascular procedures) in institutions with a high rate of MRSA or MRSE

MOA: Bactericidal; inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis by preventing formation of peptidoglycan polymers

side effects

• Common side effects include renal toxicity and 'red man syndrome' (due to rapid infusion).
• Less common side effects include ototoxicity and vestibular toxicity.
• Hypersensitivity reactions can also occur.

Vancomycin

1-1.5g IV 12hrly (10mg/min max rate to avoid red man syndrome)