The role of teicoplanin in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection: a retrospective study in critically ill COVID-19 patients (Tei-COVID Study).

INTRODUCTION: Teicoplanin has a potential antiviral activity expressed against SARS-CoV-2 and was suggested as a complementary option to treat COVID-19 patients. In this multicentric, retrospective, observational research the aim was to evaluate the impact of teicoplanin on the course of COVID-19 in critically ill patients. METHODS: 55 patients with severe COVID-19, hospitalized in the ICUs and treated with best available therapy were retrospectively analysed. Among them 34 patients were also treated with teicoplanin (Tei-COVID group), while 21 without teicoplanin (control group). RESULTS: Crude in-hospital day-30 mortality was lower in Tei-COVID group (35,2%) than in control group (42,8%), however not reaching statistical significance (p = 0.654). No statistically significant differences in length of stay in the ICU were observed between Tei-COVID group and control group (p = 0.248). On day 14 from the ICU hospitalization, viral clearance was achieved in 64.7% patients of Tei-COVID group and 57.1% of control group, without statistical difference. Serum C reactive Protein level was significantly reduced in Tei-COVID group compared to control group, but not other biochemical parameters. Finally, Gram-positive were the causative pathogens for 25% of BSIs in Tei-COVID group and for 70,6% in controls. No side effects related to teicoplanin use were observed. CONCLUSION: Despite several limitations require further research, in this study the use of teicoplanin is not associated with a significant improvement in outcomes analysed. The antiviral activity of teicoplanin against SARS-CoV-2, previously documented, is probably more effective at early clinical stages. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.