About teicoplanin
Glycopeptide antibiotic
Used for
- Treats serious infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA.
- Treats bone and joint, bloodstream, skin, and heart infections.
- May treat Clostridioides difficile infection by mouth.
Usual adult dose
Often 6 mg/kg intravenously or intramuscularly every 12 hours for three doses, then 6 mg/kg once daily; serious infections may need higher doses.
Usual dose in children
Newborns: 16 mg/kg intravenously once, then 8 mg/kg daily. Older children: 10 mg/kg every 12 hours for three doses, then 6–10 mg/kg daily.
Common side effects
- Rash, itching, or fever
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Injection-site pain
- Changes in kidney function, blood counts, or hearing
Important warnings
- Kidney function and blood counts may need monitoring, especially during prolonged treatment.
- Use cautiously with existing kidney or hearing problems.
- Severe allergic reactions and serious skin reactions can occur.
- Treatment should be guided by infection tests and local prescribing guidance.
Pregnancy
Information is limited; use during pregnancy only when a clinician considers it necessary.
Breastfeeding
It is not known how much enters breast milk; discuss use with a clinician.
Interactions
- Aminoglycosides, colistin, amphotericin B, and ciclosporin may increase kidney or hearing risks.
- Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, may increase hearing risks.
- Other medicines that can harm the kidneys or hearing may increase these risks.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.