Overview
Vancomycin hydrochloride is a glycopeptide antibiotic derived from the bacterium Amycolatopsis orientalis. It is primarily used to treat serious infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The drug works by inhibiting cell wall synthesis, making it highly effective against resistant strains. Vancomycin hydrochloride is administered intravenously or orally, depending on the infection type. It is considered a last-resort antibiotic due to its potency and the risk of developing resistance. Its use is strictly regulated in many countries to preserve its efficacy.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Vancomycin hydrochloride appears as a white to off-white powder. It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. The compound decomposes before melting, and its stability is highly dependent on storage conditions. It should be kept at 2-8°C and protected from light and moisture to maintain potency. The molecular formula of vancomycin hydrochloride is C66H75Cl2N9O24·HCl, with a molecular weight of 1485.71 g/mol. Its broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive bacteria is due to its ability to bind to the D-alanyl-D-alanine terminus of cell wall precursors, preventing cross-linking and weakening the bacterial cell wall.
Main Applications
Vancomycin hydrochloride is primarily used in clinical settings to treat severe infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and enterococci. It is often reserved for cases where other antibiotics have failed or are ineffective due to resistance. In addition to its use in human medicine, vancomycin hydrochloride is sometimes employed in veterinary medicine and research laboratories. Its role in combating antibiotic-resistant infections makes it a critical component of modern healthcare, though its use is carefully monitored to prevent the emergence of vancomycin-resistant strains.
Safety and Storage
Vancomycin hydrochloride must be handled with care to avoid exposure. Inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion can lead to adverse effects, including nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) should be used when handling the compound. Storage conditions are critical for maintaining the drug's efficacy. It should be stored at 2-8°C in a tightly sealed container, protected from light and moisture. Improper storage can lead to degradation, reducing its therapeutic effectiveness. Always check the expiration date and discard any compromised product.
B2B Procurement Guide
When procuring vancomycin hydrochloride, B2B buyers should prioritize suppliers who provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify purity and potency. Ensure the product is shipped under controlled conditions to prevent degradation during transit. Price can vary significantly based on purity, quantity, and supplier reputation. Bulk purchases may offer cost savings, but buyers should balance this against storage capabilities and usage rates. Establish a reliable supply chain to avoid shortages, as vancomycin hydrochloride is often critical for patient care.