See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

The Multifaceted Antibiotic: Understanding Tigecycline's Targeted Bacterial Infections

Tigecycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, has been a game-changer in the fight against bacterial infections. Developed by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals (now part of Pfizer), tigecycline was approved by the FDA in 2005 for the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI), complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI), and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP). But what exactly does tigecycline target, and how does it compare to other antibiotics on the market?

Understanding Tigecycline's Mechanism of Action

Tigecycline belongs to the glycylcycline class of antibiotics, which are derived from the tetracycline class. However, unlike traditional tetracyclines, tigecycline is not susceptible to resistance mechanisms that have rendered other tetracyclines ineffective. This is due to its unique chemical structure, which allows it to bind to the bacterial ribosome and inhibit protein synthesis.

Targeting Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria

One of the key benefits of tigecycline is its ability to target multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. According to a study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, tigecycline demonstrated efficacy against MDR strains of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Acinetobacter baumannii. These bacteria are notorious for their resistance to multiple antibiotics, making tigecycline a valuable addition to the treatment arsenal.

Bacterial Infections Targeted by Tigecycline

So, which bacterial infections does tigecycline mainly target? The FDA-approved indications for tigecycline include:

* Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections (cSSSI): Tigecycline is effective against a range of bacteria that cause cSSSI, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Enterococcus faecalis.
* Complicated Intra-Abdominal Infections (cIAI): Tigecycline targets bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Bacteroides fragilis, which are commonly responsible for cIAI.
* Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP): Tigecycline is effective against bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis, which cause CABP.

Comparison to Other Antibiotics

Tigecycline's broad-spectrum activity and ability to target MDR bacteria make it a valuable alternative to other antibiotics. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, tigecycline demonstrated comparable efficacy to other antibiotics, such as meropenem and vancomycin, in treating cSSSI and cIAI.

Resistance Patterns

While tigecycline has shown promise in targeting MDR bacteria, resistance patterns are emerging. According to a study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, resistance to tigecycline has been reported in some bacteria, including Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus aureus. However, the overall resistance rate remains low, and tigecycline remains a valuable option for treating bacterial infections.

Patent Expiration and Generic Availability

Tigecycline's patent expired in 2015, allowing generic versions of the drug to enter the market. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, several generic manufacturers have received FDA approval for their versions of tigecycline, including Sandoz, Teva, and Mylan. This increased competition has driven down the cost of tigecycline, making it more accessible to patients.

Conclusion

Tigecycline is a powerful antibiotic that targets a range of bacterial infections, including cSSSI, cIAI, and CABP. Its broad-spectrum activity and ability to target MDR bacteria make it a valuable addition to the treatment arsenal. While resistance patterns are emerging, the overall resistance rate remains low, and tigecycline remains a valuable option for treating bacterial infections.

Key Takeaways

* Tigecycline targets a range of bacterial infections, including cSSSI, cIAI, and CABP.
* It is effective against MDR bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Acinetobacter baumannii.
* Tigecycline's broad-spectrum activity makes it a valuable alternative to other antibiotics.
* Resistance patterns are emerging, but the overall resistance rate remains low.
* Generic versions of tigecycline are now available, driving down the cost of the drug.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the mechanism of action of tigecycline?
Tigecycline binds to the bacterial ribosome and inhibits protein synthesis.
2. What are the FDA-approved indications for tigecycline?
The FDA-approved indications for tigecycline include cSSSI, cIAI, and CABP.
3. Is tigecycline effective against MDR bacteria?
Yes, tigecycline has demonstrated efficacy against MDR strains of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Acinetobacter baumannii.
4. What is the resistance rate for tigecycline?
The overall resistance rate for tigecycline remains low, but resistance patterns are emerging.
5. Are generic versions of tigecycline available?
Yes, several generic manufacturers have received FDA approval for their versions of tigecycline.

Sources

1. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy: "Efficacy of tigecycline against multidrug-resistant bacteria" (2010)
2. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology: "Comparative efficacy of tigecycline and other antibiotics in treating cSSSI and cIAI" (2012)
3. DrugPatentWatch.com: "Tigecycline patent expiration and generic availability" (2015)
4. Wyeth Pharmaceuticals: "Tigecycline prescribing information" (2005)
5. Pfizer: "Tigecycline product information" (2020)