🍽️ teicoplanin

Antibacterial Activity: Teicoplanin is effective against a variety of gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), coagulase-negative staphylococci, Streptococcus spp., Enterococcus faecalis, and Clostridium difficile.

Mechanism of Action: Teicoplanin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to the D-alanyl-D-alanine terminus of peptidoglycan precursors, preventing their incorporation into the growing cell wall. This disrupts the integrity of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and death.

Treatment of Infections: Teicoplanin is used to treat various infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, respiratory tract infections, bloodstream infections, and endocarditis. It is particularly useful in the treatment of infections caused by multidrug-resistant gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA.

Administration: Teicoplanin is administered intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's renal function.

Pharmacokinetics: Teicoplanin has a long half-life, allowing for once-daily dosing in many cases. It is primarily eliminated by the kidneys, so dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with renal impairment.

Side Effects: Common side effects of teicoplanin may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, pruritus, and infusion site reactions. Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, can occur in some individuals. Ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity are rare but serious adverse effects that may occur with prolonged use or high doses of teicoplanin.

Monitoring: Patients receiving teicoplanin therapy should be monitored for signs of adverse effects, including renal function tests, hearing tests, and complete blood counts. Therapeutic drug monitoring may be necessary to ensure optimal dosing and minimize the risk of toxicity.

Drug Interactions: Teicoplanin may interact with other medications, including nephrotoxic drugs and drugs that affect renal function. Careful monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary when teicoplanin is used concomitantly with other medications.

Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of teicoplanin use during pregnancy and lactation has not been well established. It should be used with caution in pregnant and breastfeeding women, and the potential risks and benefits should be carefully considered.

Resistance: As with other antibiotics, the emergence of bacterial resistance to teicoplanin is a concern. Proper antibiotic stewardship practices should be followed to minimize the development of resistance.