Vancomycin (Vancocin) 80/20 Clinical Summary

1. Core Profile & Mechanism

• Class/Action: Glycopeptide bactericidal antibiotic.
• Mechanism: Binds D-alanyl-D-alanine terminus of peptidoglycan precursors. This inhibits cell-wall synthesis (peptidoglycan polymerase and transpeptidation) and alters permeability, leading to cell death. Also inhibits RNA synthesis.
• Spectrum: Gram-positive pathogens only (Staphylococci, Streptococci, Enterococci). Killing is concentration-independent, requiring an AUC/MIC ratio ≥ 400 for efficacy.

2. Therapeutic Uses & Route Dichotomy

• IV Therapy: Septicemia, endocarditis, skin/skin structure, bone/joint, lower respiratory infections, and surgic ...