Telavancin

Telavancin

Telavancin is a lipoglycopeptide antibiotic used in the treatment of certain bacterial infections. It is a semi-synthetic derivative of vancomycin, and was approved by the FDA in 2009.

Mechanism of Action

Telavancin inhibits cell wall synthesis in bacteria by binding to the D-alanyl-D-alanine terminus of the cell wall precursor lipid II. This prevents the incorporation of lipid II into the growing bacterial cell wall, leading to cell death. Telavancin also disrupts bacterial cell membrane function, which contributes to its bactericidal activity.

Clinical Use

Telavancin is indicated for the treatment of skin and skin structure infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA. It is also used in the treatment of hospital-acquired pneumonia and ventilator-associated pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA.

Side Effects

Common side effects of telavancin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Serious side effects can include kidney damage, QT interval prolongation, and Clostridium difficile infection.

Pharmacokinetics

Telavancin is administered intravenously. It has a half-life of approximately 8 hours and is primarily excreted in the urine.

See Also

• Vancomycin
• Lipoglycopeptide
• Antibiotic
• MRSA
• Hospital-acquired pneumonia
• Ventilator-associated pneumonia