Glycopeptides are a class of antibiotics that are primarily used to treat serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Gram-positive bacteria. They work by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, which ultimately leads to the death of the bacteria. Common examples of glycopeptides include vancomycin and teicoplanin. These antibiotics are often reserved for cases where other treatments have failed or when the bacteria are resistant to more common antibiotics. Glycopeptides are typically administered intravenously, especially in severe infections, and are crucial in managing conditions like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections.