Targocid

How does it work?

Teicoplanin belongs to a group of antibiotics called glycopeptides. Bacteria have an external cell wall that is reinforced by molecules called peptidoglycans. The cell wall is vital for protection against the normal environment of the body in which the bacteria live. Teicoplnin works by blocking the formation of these peptidoglycans. By doing this the walls of the bacteria become weak and this results in the death of the bacteria. Teicoplanin is used to treat serious infections of the heart and blood. It is not absorbed from the gut and is therefore only given by injection or infusion.

What is it used for?

Inflammation of the lining of the heart cavity and heart valves due to infection (endocarditis)

Prevention of infection (usually after surgery)

Severe infections

Treatment of serious staphylococcal bacterial infections

Warning!

People taking this medicine should have regular blood tests to monitor their kidney and liver function.

It is recommended that regular blood tests are performed to check levels of the blood components.

Use with caution in

Decreased kidney function

History of allergies

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Rash

Itching (pruritus)

Diarrhoea

Blood disorders

Alteration in results of liver function tests

Fever (pyrexia)

Hearing distubances

Pain and inflammation of the blood vessel at the site of injection

Dizziness

Nausea and vomiting

Kidney damage

An extreme allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?

There is an increased risk of kidney and ear damage if teicoplanin is taken with aminoglycosides or colistin.

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