Vancomycin is an antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections caused by gram-positive bacteria. It is in the cell wall synthesis inhibitor class of antimicrobial medications. Vancomycin is used to treat and prevent various bacterial infections caused by gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), streptococci, enterococci, and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) infections.

Vancomycin is used to treat colitis (inflammation of the intestine caused by certain bacteria) that may occur after antibiotic treatment. It is also used to treat Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (also called C diff) when taken orally. Oral vancomycin works only in the intestines and is not normally absorbed into the body.

Vancomycin is available in different forms, including capsules, oral solution, and injectable form. The medication is usually taken 3-4 times a day for 7-10 days. It is important to follow the directions on the prescription label carefully and take vancomycin exactly as directed.

It is important to note that antibiotics such as vancomycin will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed increases the risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.

In summary, vancomycin is an antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections caused by gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA, streptococci, enterococci, and MSSA infections. It is also used to treat colitis and Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea when taken orally.