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Prophylactic Vancomycin

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to D-Ala-D-Ala peptidoglycan precursors, preventing cross-linking and causing cell wall disruption.

Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to D-Ala-D-Ala peptidoglycan precursors, preventing cross-linking and causing cell wall disruption. Used for Prophylaxis of bacterial infections in immunocompromised cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

At a glance

Generic nameProphylactic Vancomycin
SponsorMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Drug classGlycopeptide antibiotic
TargetBacterial peptidoglycan D-Ala-D-Ala precursors
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology / Infectious Disease Prevention
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Vancomycin binds to the terminal D-alanyl-D-alanine residues of peptidoglycan precursors in bacterial cell walls, blocking the cross-linking reactions catalyzed by transpeptidases. This prevents proper cell wall formation and integrity, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. In prophylactic use, vancomycin is administered to prevent bacterial infections in immunocompromised cancer patients at high risk of infection.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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