Vancomycin is active only against bacteria, especially . Mechanism of Action: inhibition of the enzyme transglycosylase, which prevents peptidoglycan elongation and cross-linking.

The term, meaning 'bacteria-killing' or , applies to vancomycin. Vancomycin will typically even kill -resistant staphylococci. Vancomycin is absorbed from the intestinal tract.

The main indication of parenteral vancomycin is or sepsis caused by methicillin-resistant staphylococci. Vancomycin in combination with is an alternative to treat enterococcal endocarditis in a patient with significant penicillin allergy.

Adverse reactions: about 10% of cases. Combination of vancomycin and an aminoglycoside is likely to increase the incidence of side effects.