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Glycopeptide Antibiotic

Teicoplanin (Surgical Prophylaxis/MRSA)

Brand names: Targocid

Teicoplanin is a glycopeptide antibiotic given parenterally for surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (commonly where MRSA cover or beta-lactam allergy applies) and for treatment of serious Gram-positive infection including MRSA.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It inhibits bacterial cell-wall synthesis by binding the terminal D-alanyl-D-alanine of peptidoglycan precursors, preventing cross-linking; its activity is confined to Gram-positive organisms.

Prescribing in practice

  • An adequate loading regimen of several closely spaced doses is essential, because a single prophylactic dose gives sub-therapeutic levels and risks prophylaxis failure.
  • Monitor renal function and avoid concurrent nephro- and oto-toxic agents where possible, reducing exposure in renal impairment and the elderly.
  • There is partial cross-reactivity with vancomycin, so use cautiously in patients with known glycopeptide hypersensitivity.

Monitoring

Monitor renal function and full blood count during prolonged courses, with serum trough concentrations checked in deep-seated infection or endocarditis.

Counselling the patient

  • Report any rash, fever, or hearing changes promptly.
  • If you are continuing treatment after discharge, complete the full course as directed.

Evidence & guidelines

Teicoplanin is well established for MRSA-cover surgical prophylaxis and Gram-positive infection, supported by the SPC and UK antimicrobial guidance.

Reference: NICE NG125 (Surgical Site Infection); PHE Antimicrobial Stewardship Guidelines; MHRA SPC Targocid; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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