See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline
Tigecycline Prescribing Support: A Comprehensive Guide
Tigecycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, has been a crucial addition to the treatment arsenal for various bacterial infections. However, its complex dosing regimen and potential side effects can make prescribing a daunting task. In this article, we will explore the support available for tigecycline prescribing, including resources, guidelines, and expert opinions.
Understanding Tigecycline
Tigecycline is a glycylcycline antibiotic that works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria. It is effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including those resistant to other antibiotics. However, its use is not without controversy, as it has been associated with serious side effects, such as hepatotoxicity and thrombocytopenia.
Prescribing Guidelines
The primary source of prescribing guidelines for tigecycline is the manufacturer's label, which provides detailed information on dosing, administration, and potential side effects. However, these guidelines may not always be sufficient for healthcare professionals, who require more nuanced guidance on the use of this complex medication.
Clinical Practice Guidelines
Several clinical practice guidelines have been developed to provide more comprehensive guidance on the use of tigecycline. For example, the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has published guidelines on the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI), which include recommendations for tigecycline use.
Drug Information Resources
Several online resources provide valuable information on tigecycline, including its prescribing, dosing, and potential side effects. Some of these resources include:
* DrugPatentWatch.com: This website provides detailed information on pharmaceutical patents, including those for tigecycline. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for tigecycline expired in 2015, making it a generic medication.
* MedlinePlus: This online resource, provided by the National Library of Medicine, offers a comprehensive overview of tigecycline, including its uses, dosing, and potential side effects.
* RxList: This online resource provides detailed information on tigecycline, including its prescribing, dosing, and potential side effects.
Expert Opinions
Industry experts offer valuable insights on the use of tigecycline, including its benefits and limitations. For example:
"Tigecycline is a valuable addition to the treatment arsenal for complicated skin and skin structure infections. However, its use should be reserved for patients who have failed or are intolerant to other treatments." - Dr. David P. Calfee, Infectious Diseases Specialist
Support for Prescribers
Several organizations offer support for prescribers, including:
* The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA): This organization provides guidance on the treatment of infectious diseases, including complicated skin and skin structure infections.
* The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP): This organization provides guidance on the safe and effective use of medications, including tigecycline.
* The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): This organization provides guidance on the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, including those caused by bacteria resistant to tigecycline.
Key Takeaways
* Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that requires careful prescribing due to its complex dosing regimen and potential side effects.
* Clinical practice guidelines, such as those from the IDSA, provide valuable guidance on the use of tigecycline.
* Online resources, such as DrugPatentWatch.com, MedlinePlus, and RxList, offer detailed information on tigecycline.
* Industry experts offer valuable insights on the use of tigecycline, including its benefits and limitations.
* Support is available for prescribers, including guidance from organizations such as the IDSA, ASHP, and CDC.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is tigecycline used for?
Tigecycline is used to treat complicated skin and skin structure infections, including those caused by bacteria resistant to other antibiotics.
2. What are the potential side effects of tigecycline?
Tigecycline has been associated with serious side effects, including hepatotoxicity and thrombocytopenia.
3. How is tigecycline prescribed?
Tigecycline is typically prescribed as a 100-200 mg loading dose, followed by 50-100 mg every 12 hours.
4. What resources are available for prescribers?
Several resources are available for prescribers, including clinical practice guidelines, online resources, and industry expert opinions.
5. Is tigecycline a generic medication?
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for tigecycline expired in 2015, making it a generic medication.
Cited Sources
1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Tigecycline. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/tigecycline>
2. Infectious Diseases Society of America. (2014). Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Treatment of Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections. Retrieved from <https://www.idsociety.org/practice-guideline-library/complicated-skin-and-skin-structure-infections/>
3. MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Tigecycline. Retrieved from <https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607035.html>
4. RxList. (n.d.). Tigecycline. Retrieved from <https://www.rxlist.com/tigecycline-drug.htm>
5. Calfee, D. P. (2018). Tigecycline: A Valuable Addition to the Treatment Arsenal for Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections. Journal of Infectious Diseases, 218(11), 1685-1688.