Test Name
VANCOMYCIN (TDM)
Aliases
VANCOCIN
Abbreviations
VANC, VAN, VCM
Test Classification
INDIVIDUAL
Department
SPECIAL CHEMISTRY
Sub Department
DRUG TESTING
TAT Category
ELAPSED (CONTINUOUS) TIME
Estimated TAT
9
TAT Units
DAYS
Test Requirements
SAMPLE COLLECTION: Sample collection is usually TIMED e.g. a trough (pre-dose/ immediately before next dose) sample OR a peak sample (1 hour post-dose/ after infusion complete). TDM request form details should be captured & filled out in entirety. MUST specify whether trough or peak collection has been done.
SAMPLE TYPE: Serum required (collection in red top tube is preferred).
SHIPPING/ TRANSPORTATION REQUIREMENTS
Shipping Temperature: Refrigerated
ANALYTE STABILITY
Refrigerated temperature: 14 days at 20-25°C │ Frozen: 1 year at -20°C
Clinical Utility
Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic used in the treatment of serious Gram positive infections e.g. endocarditis, MRSA infection.
Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) if indicated is typically done after steady state is achieved. Steady state is typically reached after 20-35 hours in patients with normal renal function which is approximately after 3 doses. TDM is done to ensure patients (e.g. renally impaired) receive an effective yet safe dose.
Toxic effects manifest as nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity.
Last Review
26th Feb 2026