Antibiotics GroupsGlycopeptides

Glycopeptide Group

The glycopeptide antibiotics include: 1. Avoparcin• Produced by Amycolatopsis coloradensis

2. Teicoplanin (Targocid)• Is a mixture of six closely related compounds produced

by Streptococcus teichomyetius.3. Vancomycin• Produced by Streptococcus orientalis.

Mechanism of Action - Spectrum

The glycopeptide antibiotics inhibit cell wall synthesis by binding strongly with cell wall precursors.

Gram positive

Resistance

Prior to the ban on its use in food-producing species, avoparcin was found to be selected for vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).

Bacterial resistance to vancomycin is generally uncommon, with the exception of Enterococcus species.

Development of resistance to teicoplanin (Targocid) is also uncommon.

Indications

Vancomycin For the treatment of life-threatening Gram-positive infections

that are unresponsive to less toxic antibiotics. The worldwide emergence of vancomycin-resistant

enterococci (VRE) is a major concern for public health and stimulated the debate concerning the use of avoparcin in agriculture and whether this contributed to VRE in humans.

Teicoplanin (Targocid) For treatment of infections with Gram-positive bacteria,

especially bacteria resistant to vancomycin.