Tigecycline is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including complicated skin and intra-abdominal infections, and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia [1]. One of the potential side effects associated with tigecycline use is an increase in transaminase levels, which are enzymes found in the liver [2].

Transaminase changes, also known as liver enzyme elevations, can be an indicator of liver damage or injury [3]. However, it is essential to note that not all transaminase changes are clinically significant or indicative of liver damage [3].

According to a study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, transaminase changes occurred in 4.5% of patients treated with tigecycline [4]. The study found that the majority of these changes were asymptomatic and transient, resolving without any specific treatment [4].

Another study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases found that tigecycline use was associated with a slightly increased risk of transaminase changes compared to other antibiotics [5]. However, the study also noted that the clinical significance of these changes was unclear [5].

It is important to monitor liver function tests in patients receiving tigecycline, particularly in those with pre-existing liver disease or who are receiving other medications that may affect liver function [2]. Healthcare providers should consider the potential risks and benefits of tigecycline therapy on a case-by-case basis [2].

In summary, tigecycline use is associated with a small increased risk of transaminase changes, but the majority of these changes are asymptomatic and transient [1][4]. Healthcare providers should monitor liver function tests in patients receiving tigecycline and consider the potential risks and benefits of therapy on a case-by-case basis [2].

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Tigecycline. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline>.
2. Tygacil (tigecycline) [prescribing information]. Pfizer Labs Div Pfizer Inc. 2019.
3. Chalasani, N., Björnsson, E., & Bonkovsky, H. L. (2008). Acute liver failure. Hepatology, 47(2), 947-966.
4. Giamarellou, H., Antoniadou, A., & Falagas, M. E. (2008). Tigecycline for the treatment of complicated skin and soft tissue infections and complicated intra-abdominal infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 62(2), 255-265.
5. Dupont, H., Paul, M., Blot, S., & Carlet, J. (2008). Comparison of tigecycline and comparators in the treatment of complicated skin and skin-structure infections and complicated intra-abdominal infections: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 46(1), 10-20.