Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is vancomycin. It is an antibiotic that treats infections caused by germs called bacteria. It can also help prevent wound infections from surgery. Vancomycin does not treat infections caused by viruses, like the common cold. Patients usually tolerate it well and start feeling better soon. 

Vancomycin is usually given when other antibiotics will not work. It can also be given when patients have allergies to other antibiotics. 

Vancomycin is usually given as an infusion in your vein. Your caregiver may check your blood pressure during a dose, to make sure it does not get too low. Sometimes patients notice side effects. You should let your doctor or nurse know right away if you have any wheezing, shortness of breath, or muscle pain or spasms in your chest or back. You should also report if your skin flushes, turns red, or starts itching. These side effects can be treated, and your doctor will decide if you should continue to receive your dose. 

As with any medicine, rare but more serious side effects can occur. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will order blood tests and follow you closely. You should let your doctor know if you notice any unusual changes to your body. This includes changes to your hearing, or ringing in your ears. Also, report any dizziness or diarrhea that does not go away. 

Sometimes, vancomycin can help treat diarrhea if it is caused by an infection. In this case, vancomycin can be given by mouth as a capsule or a liquid. 

For best results with vancomycin, you should finish the full course. Otherwise, the infection could return and become hard to treat.