Key takeaways
Vancomycin (Vancocin) and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim) are both antibiotics, but they treat different types of infections and belong to different drug classes. Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic that is taken by mouth 3 to 4 times a day and is available in both capsule and liquid forms. When administered orally, it is used mainly for treating *Clostridioides difficile* (C. diff) diarrhea and severe gut infections. Vancomycin is also availible as an injection to treat other types of infections. On the other hand, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is a combination of a sulfonamide and an antifolate antibiotic, used to treat a variety of infections including urinary tract infections (UTIs), ear infections, and lung infections. It is typically taken twice a day and is available as tablets, liquid, and an injection. Vancomycin can cause side effects like nausea and stomach pain. Although less common with oral forms of vancomycin, vancomycin still has a risk of kidney damage and hearing problems, especially in older adults. Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim can also cause nausea, diarrhea, and rash, and it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. It is not recommended for people with liver or kidney problems, or those who are pregnant. Both medications require a prescription and should be taken exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.
