Zinplava vs. Vancomycin for Bacterial Infection: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Zinplava

(bezlotoxumab)

vancomycin injection

Summary for Zinplava

Prescription only

Zinplava (bezlotoxumab) is a medication used to prevent repeat infection from a bacteria called Clostridioides difficile (C. diff). It's given as an injection into the veins for one dose only.

Indications for Zinplava

Prevention of another C. diff infection (CDI) in high-risk adults who are taking antibiotics for CDI

Pros and Cons for Zinplava

Pros

Works well to prevent CDIs
Given as a single dose
No known drug interactions

Cons

Only used for preventing CDI from happening again (not for treatment)
Given as an IV injection by a healthcare provider
Brand name only, so might be expensive

Common Side Effects for Zinplava

Nausea (7%)
Fever (5%)
Headache (4%)

Warnings for Zinplava

Heart failure

Summary for Vancomycin

Prescription only

Vancomycin injection is an antibiotic used to treat some serious bacterial infections in adults and children. It treats bacterial infections in the bloodstream, skin, bone, heart, and lungs. This medication is given as an injection into your vein by a healthcare professional. It's usually infused 2 to 4 times a day. Your prescriber will check the vancomycin levels in your blood to make sure the dose is safe and works well for you. Side effects can include diarrhea and dizziness. If given too fast, it has a risk of causing a serious infusion reaction (previously known as red man syndrome).

Indications for Vancomycin

Treatment of certain serious bacterial infections, including:

Bloodstream infection (septicemia)
Heart infection (infective endocarditis)
Skin infections
Bone infections
Lower respiratory tract infections

Pros and Cons for Vancomycin

Pros

Can treat certain hard-to-treat bacterial infections
Approved for adults and children of most ages
A possible option for people with a penicillin allergy

Cons

Can raise the risk of kidney damage
Need regular blood work and tests to check for appropriate dosing and side effects
Risk of a serious infusion reaction if injected into the vein too quickly