telavancin

Telavancin is a semi-synthetic lipoglycopeptide antibiotic derived from vancomycin, used for the treatment of serious Gram-positive bacterial infections, including complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI), hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia (HABP), and ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia (VABP)[1][2][3][4]. It exhibits bactericidal activity primarily against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other Gram-positive pathogens[2][5]. Telavancin acts through a dual mechanism of action: it inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to the D-Ala-D-Ala terminus of peptidoglycan precursors, preventing polymerization and cross-linking; additionally, it disrupts the integrity of the bacterial cell membrane by depolarizing it via interaction with lipid II[5][6]. This dual action distinguishes telavancin from vancomycin. The drug is administered intravenously as a powder for solution[1]. Telavancin is reserved for cases where alternative treatments are not suitable due to its risk profile, including nephrotoxicity and potential teratogenicity. It has demonstrated higher rates of kidney failure compared to vancomycin in clinical trials[5]. The drug may cause infusion-related reactions such as "Red-man Syndrome" if administered too rapidly[1]. Developed by Theravance and manufactured/marketed in partnership with Cumberland Pharmaceuticals.

Brand names

Vibativ

Other names

TelavancinaTélavancineTelavancinum