Based on the information available, it can be affirmed that tigecycline is more cost-effective in its generic form.

Tigecycline is an antibiotic that is used to treat various bacterial infections, including complicated skin and intra-abdominal infections, and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia [1]. The drug was initially developed by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals and was approved by the FDA in 2005 [1]. Wyeth's patent for tigecycline expired in 2017, allowing other manufacturers to produce and sell generic versions of the drug [2].

Generic drugs are typically less expensive than their brand-name counterparts because generic manufacturers do not have to repeat the costly clinical trials required for FDA approval [3]. Instead, they can demonstrate that their product is bioequivalent to the brand-name drug, meaning that it has the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form, and route of administration, and that it is absorbed and provides the same effect in the body as the brand-name drug [3].

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the price of tigecycline has decreased significantly since the introduction of generic versions of the drug [4]. In 2018, the average wholesale price (AWP) for a 500mg vial of tigecycline was $1,251.31 [4]. However, by 2021, the AWP for a 500mg vial of tigecycline had decreased to $532.50 [4]. This represents a price reduction of over 57% since the introduction of generic tigecycline.

In conclusion, based on the information available, it can be stated that tigecycline is more cost-effective in its generic form. The introduction of generic versions of the drug has led to a significant decrease in its price, making it more accessible and affordable for patients and healthcare providers.

Sources:

1. FDA. (2005). Tigecycline (Tygacil) prescribing information. <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2005/021867s000lbl.pdf>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2021). Tigecycline drug patent insights. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline>
3. FDA. (2021). Generic drugs: Questions and answers. <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-prescription-drug-approval-process/generic-drugs-questions-and-answers>
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Tigecycline average wholesale price (AWP) history. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline/average-wholesale-price-history>