Vancokem Use In Pregnancy & Lactation

Use in Pregnancy: Teratology studies have been performed at 5 times the human dose in rats and 3 times the human dose in rabbits, and have revealed no evidence of harm to the foetus due to Vancomycin. In a controlled clinical study, the potential ototoxic and nephrotoxic effects of Vancomycin hydrochloride on infants were evaluated when the drug was administered to pregnant women for serious staphylococcal infections complicating intravenous drug abuse. Vancomycin hydrochloride was found in cord blood. No sensorineural hearing loss or nephrotoxicity attributable to Vancomycin was noted.
One infant, whose mother received Vancomycin in the third trimester, experienced conductive hearing loss that was not attributable to Vancomycin. Because Vancomycin was administered only in the second and third trimesters, it is not known whether it causes foetal harm. Vancomycin should be given in pregnancy only if clearly needed and blood levels should be monitored carefully to minimise the risk of foetal toxicity. It has been reported, however, that pregnant patients may require significantly increased doses of Vancomycin lo achieve therapeutic serum concentrations.
Use in Lactation: Vancomycin Hydrochloride is excreted in breast milk but it is not known whether it is harmful to the newborn. Therefore, it is not recommended for nursing mothers unless the expected benefits outweigh any potential risk.