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Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006-.
CASRN: 1404-90-6
Drug Levels and Effects
Summary of Use during Lactation
Limited information indicates that vancomycin produces low levels in milk and because vancomycin is poorly absorbed orally, it is not likely to reach the bloodstream of the infant or cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. No special precautions are required.
Drug Levels
Maternal Levels. A single colostrum vancomycin level of 12.7 mg/L was found 4 hours after the end of the infusion of vancomycin 1 gram intravenously given every 12 hours in one woman. Her colostrum was obtained after delivery at a gestational age of about 35 to 38 weeks.[1] Assuming that the colostrum level is a peak level, an exclusively breastfed infant would receive a maximum of 1.9 mg/kg daily by mouth in breastmilk. The amount in mature milk might be lower. This dose is only about 4.8% of the oral vancomycin dose of 40 mg/kg daily used to treat Clostridioides difficile infection of the bowel in infants.
Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects in Breastfed Infants
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Alternate Drugs to Consider
Clindamycin, Daptomycin, Doxycycline, Linezolid, Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole
References
- 1.
- Reyes MP, Ostrea EM Jr, Cabinian AE, et al. Vancomycin during pregnancy: Does it cause hearing loss or nephrotoxicity in the infant? Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1989;161:977–81. [PubMed: 2801848]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Vancomycin
CAS Registry Number
1404-90-6
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Milk, Human
Anti-Infective Agents
Antibacterial Agents
Glycopeptides
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. The U.S. government does not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.
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- Spectral Data Analysis and Identification of Vancomycin Hydrochloride.[Front Chem. 2021]Spectral Data Analysis and Identification of Vancomycin Hydrochloride.Tian Y, Chong X, Yao S, Xu M. Front Chem. 2021; 9:753060. Epub 2021 Sep 20.
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