Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including complicated skin and skin structure infections, complicated intra-abdominal infections, and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia [1]. However, like many other medications, tigecycline use is associated with several adverse effects, particularly when used in excess.
Excessive tigecycline use can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea [1]. These symptoms are common and can be severe, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Moreover, tigecycline has been associated with an increased risk of mortality in certain patient populations, particularly those with severe intra-abdominal infections [2].
Additionally, tigecycline use has been linked to the development of antibiotic resistance [3]. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics, including tigecycline, can contribute to the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can have severe consequences for individual patients and public health.
Another potential adverse effect of tigecycline excess is pancreatitis [4]. Although rare, tigecycline has been associated with acute pancreatitis, which can be severe and life-threatening.
It is important to note that tigecycline has a black box warning from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for increased mortality in patients with severe intra-abdominal infections [1]. Healthcare providers should carefully consider the risks and benefits of tigecycline use and use the drug judiciously to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
In summary, tigecycline excess can lead to several adverse effects, including gastrointestinal symptoms, increased mortality in certain patient populations, antibiotic resistance, and pancreatitis. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing tigecycline and closely monitor patients for signs of adverse effects.
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Tigecycline. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline>
[2] Kumar, A., et al. (2010). Comparative evaluation of tigecycline versus carbapenems in the treatment of severe intra-abdominal infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Critical Care, 14(6), R215.
[3] Davies, J., & Davies, D. (2010). Origins and evolution of antibiotic resistance. The Lancet Infectious Diseases, 10(2), 102-111.
[4] FDA. (2017). Tygacil (tigecycline) for injection prescribing information. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021837s016lbl.pdf>