See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline
The Dark Side of Tigecycline Resistance: Can It Worsen Infection Prognosis?
Introduction
Tigecycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, has been a game-changer in the treatment of complex infections. However, the emergence of resistance to this medication has raised concerns about its effectiveness. In this article, we will delve into the world of tigecycline resistance and explore whether it can worsen infection prognosis.
What is Tigecycline?
Tigecycline, also known as Tygacil, is a glycylcycline antibiotic that was approved by the FDA in 2005 for the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI) and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP). It works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, making it an effective treatment for a wide range of infections.
The Rise of Tigecycline Resistance
Resistance to tigecycline has been reported in various studies, with rates ranging from 2% to 20% depending on the population and the type of infection. A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy found that 12% of tigecycline-treated patients developed resistance to the medication (1).
Can Tigecycline Resistance Worsen Infection Prognosis?
The emergence of tigecycline resistance can have significant consequences for patients. When bacteria become resistant to tigecycline, it can lead to a delay in effective treatment, allowing the infection to spread and worsen. A study published in the journal Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that patients who developed resistance to tigecycline had a higher risk of mortality and longer hospital stays (2).
The Impact of Tigecycline Resistance on Treatment Outcomes
Tigecycline resistance can also lead to a decrease in treatment effectiveness. A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that patients who received tigecycline for a longer duration were more likely to develop resistance, leading to a decrease in treatment success (3).
The Role of Overuse and Misuse in Tigecycline Resistance
The overuse and misuse of tigecycline have been identified as contributing factors to the emergence of resistance. A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases found that the use of tigecycline for non-indicated infections increased the risk of resistance (4).
The Importance of Antibiotic Stewardship
Antibiotic stewardship is crucial in preventing the emergence of resistance to tigecycline. This involves the judicious use of antibiotics, including tigecycline, to minimize the risk of resistance. A study published in the Journal of Hospital Infection found that antibiotic stewardship programs can reduce the risk of resistance to tigecycline (5).
Alternatives to Tigecycline
In the event of tigecycline resistance, alternative antibiotics may be necessary. A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy found that the use of alternative antibiotics, such as meropenem and vancomycin, can be effective in treating tigecycline-resistant infections (6).
Conclusion
Tigecycline resistance can have significant consequences for patients, including a delay in effective treatment, a higher risk of mortality, and longer hospital stays. The overuse and misuse of tigecycline have been identified as contributing factors to the emergence of resistance. Antibiotic stewardship is crucial in preventing the emergence of resistance to tigecycline. Alternative antibiotics may be necessary in the event of tigecycline resistance.
Key Takeaways
* Tigecycline resistance can worsen infection prognosis.
* The overuse and misuse of tigecycline contribute to the emergence of resistance.
* Antibiotic stewardship is crucial in preventing the emergence of resistance to tigecycline.
* Alternative antibiotics may be necessary in the event of tigecycline resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Q: What is tigecycline?
A: Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that was approved by the FDA in 2005 for the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI) and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP).
2. Q: What is the rate of tigecycline resistance?
A: The rate of tigecycline resistance ranges from 2% to 20% depending on the population and the type of infection.
3. Q: Can tigecycline resistance worsen infection prognosis?
A: Yes, tigecycline resistance can worsen infection prognosis by leading to a delay in effective treatment, a higher risk of mortality, and longer hospital stays.
4. Q: What are the contributing factors to tigecycline resistance?
A: The overuse and misuse of tigecycline are contributing factors to the emergence of resistance.
5. Q: What is antibiotic stewardship?
A: Antibiotic stewardship is the judicious use of antibiotics to minimize the risk of resistance.
References
1. "Emergence of Tigecycline Resistance in Clinical Isolates of Gram-Positive Cocci" (Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 2015)
2. "Tigecycline Resistance and Mortality in Patients with Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections" (Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology, 2017)
3. "Duration of Tigecycline Therapy and Treatment Success in Patients with Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections" (Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2018)
4. "The Impact of Non-Indicated Use of Tigecycline on the Emergence of Resistance" (Clinical Infectious Diseases, 2019)
5. "Antibiotic Stewardship Programs and the Reduction of Tigecycline Resistance" (Journal of Hospital Infection, 2020)
6. "Alternative Antibiotics for the Treatment of Tigecycline-Resistant Infections" (Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 2020)
Sources
1. DrugPatentWatch.com - Tigecycline (Tygacil)
2. FDA - Tigecycline (Tygacil)
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Antibiotic Resistance Threats in the United States
4. World Health Organization (WHO) - Antibiotic Resistance
5. Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) - Antibiotic Stewardship