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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 — not shown for this use

The product information we hold does not support a dose for this page's specific use, route or population, so none is shown. Follow your local or national guideline, and confirm against the product SmPC.

The licensed dosing — for the medicine's licensed uses, which may differ from this page's — is on Teicoplanin.

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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