Glycopeptides
Start with the big picture
Glycopeptides bind the D-Ala-D-Ala ends of peptidoglycan precursors, interrupting cell-wall synthesis and producing bactericidal activity. Their spectrum is limited to Gram-positive bacteria; they do not act against Gram-negatives or mycobacteria. The class includes vancomycin, teicoplanin, telavancin, dalbavancin, and oritavancin. The lesson connects these agents’ properties to clinical use, including IV vancomycin for serious MRSA infections and oral vancomycin for C. difficile colitis. It also introduces resistance through altered binding targets, important adverse effects and infusion precautions, and monitoring considerations. Pharmacokinetics, interactions, and the longer-acting features of lipoglycopeptides help frame how these drugs are selected and used.
What you'll learn
- Explain how glycopeptides inhibit bacterial cell-wall synthesis.
- Identify the class’s Gram-positive spectrum and key clinical applications.
- Describe how altered peptidoglycan targets contribute to glycopeptide resistance.
- Recognize major adverse effects and measures used to reduce infusion reactions.
- Summarize key pharmacokinetic and monitoring considerations.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
