Teicoplanin
Generic Details
Generic Name
Teicoplanin
Other Names
- Teicoplanin Hydrochloride
Drug Class
- Glycopeptide Antibiotic
Chemical Formula
C88H94Cl2N8O34S2
Molecular Weight
1940.76 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to peptidoglycan precursors
Indications
- Treatment of severe gram-positive bacterial infections, such as MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus), endocarditis, and skin infections
Common Dosage Forms
- Intravenous powder for solution
Typical Dosage
- 400 mg loading dose, followed by 200 mg every 24 hours
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosing based on weight and age, to be determined by a pediatrician
Geriatric Dosage
- Dosing adjustment may be required based on renal function
Side Effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, thrombocytopenia
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to teicoplanin or other glycopeptide antibiotics
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, use caution or consider alternative
Drug Interactions
- May enhance the effects of other nephrotoxic or ototoxic drugs
Overdose Symptoms
- Renal failure, hearing loss, liver damage
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, manage symptoms and provide supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Store powder for solution at controlled room temperature (25°C)
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Not absorbed orally, administered parenterally
- Distribution: Widely distributed in tissues
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily excreted in the urine
Precautions
- Monitor renal and liver function during therapy
Warnings
- Prolonged use may result in superinfection with nonsusceptible organisms
Others
- Teicoplanin monitoring in blood levels may be necessary to ensure therapeutic efficacy