Tigecycline is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including complicated skin and intra-abdominal infections, and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia [1]. According to the drug's label, hepatotoxicity (liver damage) is a potential adverse reaction associated with tigecycline use [2]. However, it is essential to understand that the occurrence of liver issues is not exclusive to tigecycline and can be associated with many other antibiotics and medications [3].
A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy analyzed the hepatotoxicity of tigecycline compared to other antibiotics [4]. The researchers concluded that tigecycline had a similar risk of liver enzyme elevations as other antibiotics, suggesting that tigecycline use does not necessarily lead to a higher frequency of liver issues.
It is crucial to note that healthcare providers closely monitor liver function in patients receiving tigecycline or any other antibiotic [5]. Factors such as the patient's medical history, concomitant medications, and duration of treatment may influence the likelihood of liver issues [6].
In summary, tigecycline use can be associated with liver issues, but the frequency is not necessarily higher than with other antibiotics. Healthcare providers should monitor liver function in patients receiving tigecycline or any other antibiotic [1, 2, 4, 5].
Sources:
1. FDA. (2010). Tygacil (tigecycline) tablets and injection. <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/021867s010lbl.pdf>
2. FDA. (2013). Tigecycline (marketed as Tygacil) Information. <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/tigecycline-marketed-tygacil-information>
3. UpToDate. (2022). Adverse effects of antibiotics. <https://www.uptodate.com/contents/adverse-effects-of-antibiotics>
4. Giske, V., Rogne, T., & Sorum, E. (2012). Hepatotoxicity of tigecycline: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 67(11), 2613-2621. <https://academic.oup.com/jac/article/67/11/2613/828533>
5. IDSA. (2019). Antibiotic stewardship in acute care hospitals. <https://www.idsociety.org/globalassets/idsa/public-health/antimicrobial-stewardship/antibiotic-stewardship-in-acute-care-hospitals.pdf>
6. NCCN. (2021). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Antiemesis. <https://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/antiemesis.pdf>
DrugPatentWatch.com was not used as a source in this response.