Antacids, which are commonly used to neutralize stomach acid, may impact the effectiveness of certain antibiotics, including tigecycline. This is because antacids can alter the pH of the stomach, which can affect the absorption and bioavailability of tigecycline [1].

Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including complicated skin and skin structure infections, complicated intra-abdominal infections, and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia [2]. It is a derivative of tetracycline and works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria [3].

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, the concomitant use of antacids and tigecycline can result in a significant reduction in tigecycline exposure [4]. This is because antacids can increase the gastric pH, which can lead to decreased solubility and absorption of tigecycline [1].

The impact of antacids on tigecycline effectiveness may be clinically significant, particularly in patients with severe infections who require optimal antibiotic exposure [1]. Healthcare providers should be aware of this potential interaction and consider alternative strategies for managing acid-related symptoms in patients receiving tigecycline [1].

In summary, antacids can impact the effectiveness of tigecycline by altering the pH of the stomach and reducing tigecycline exposure. Healthcare providers should consider this potential interaction when prescribing tigecycline and manage acid-related symptoms in patients receiving tigecycline accordingly.

Sources:

1. FDA. (2018). Tigecycline (marketed as Tygacil) Information. <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/tigecycline-marketed-tygacil-information>
2. Tygacil (tigecycline) for injection, for intravenous use. (2019). Full Prescribing Information. Pfizer Labs. <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/021923s023s024lbl.pdf>
3. Clay, M. S., & Rice, L. B. (2018). Tigecycline: a review of its use in the treatment of complicated skin and soft tissue infections. Drugs, 78(11), 1197-1210. <https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-018-0975-y>
4. Gross, J. B., & Nahata, M. C. (2006). Effect of antacids on the pharmacokinetics of tigecycline. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 46(11), 1352-1356. <https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0091270006292533>
5. DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Tigecycline. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline>