See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Can Tigecycline Cause Liver Damage in Adults?

Understanding Tigecycline and Its Risks

Tigecycline, also known as Tygacil, is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including those caused by resistant bacteria. Developed by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals (now part of Pfizer), tigecycline was approved by the US FDA in 2005 for the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI), complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI), and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP).

What is Tigecycline Used For?

Tigecycline is used to treat a range of bacterial infections, including those caused by:

* Complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI)
* Complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI)
* Community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP)
* Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP)
* Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP)

Liver Damage and Tigecycline: What's the Risk?

While tigecycline is generally well-tolerated, there have been reports of liver damage associated with its use. According to the FDA, tigecycline has been linked to cases of liver damage, including:

* Elevated liver enzymes (ALT and AST)
* Jaundice
* Hepatic failure

How Common is Liver Damage with Tigecycline?

The exact incidence of liver damage associated with tigecycline is unclear. However, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that liver enzyme elevations occurred in approximately 10% of patients treated with tigecycline.

Risk Factors for Liver Damage with Tigecycline

Certain factors may increase the risk of liver damage with tigecycline, including:

* Pre-existing liver disease
* Older age
* Concurrent use of other medications that can cause liver damage
* Higher doses of tigecycline

Monitoring Liver Function with Tigecycline

To minimize the risk of liver damage, it's essential to monitor liver function regularly while taking tigecycline. This includes:

* Regular blood tests to check liver enzyme levels (ALT and AST)
* Monitoring for signs and symptoms of liver damage, such as jaundice or abdominal pain

Alternatives to Tigecycline

If you're concerned about the risk of liver damage with tigecycline, discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider. Other antibiotics may be available for the treatment of bacterial infections.

Conclusion

While tigecycline is a valuable treatment option for bacterial infections, it's essential to be aware of the potential risk of liver damage. By understanding the risks and monitoring liver function regularly, you can minimize the risk of liver damage and ensure safe treatment with tigecycline.

Key Takeaways

* Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.
* Liver damage has been reported in association with tigecycline use.
* Risk factors for liver damage with tigecycline include pre-existing liver disease, older age, and concurrent use of other medications.
* Regular monitoring of liver function is essential to minimize the risk of liver damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Q: What is tigecycline used for?
A: Tigecycline is used to treat various bacterial infections, including complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI), complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI), and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP).
2. Q: Can tigecycline cause liver damage?
A: Yes, liver damage has been reported in association with tigecycline use.
3. Q: What are the risk factors for liver damage with tigecycline?
A: Risk factors for liver damage with tigecycline include pre-existing liver disease, older age, and concurrent use of other medications.
4. Q: How common is liver damage with tigecycline?
A: The exact incidence of liver damage associated with tigecycline is unclear.
5. Q: What should I do if I'm concerned about the risk of liver damage with tigecycline?
A: Discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com: Tigecycline (Tygacil) - Drug Information.
2. FDA: Tigecycline (Tygacil) - Highlights of Prescribing Information.
3. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology: Tigecycline-induced liver injury: a case series and review of the literature.
4. Wyeth Pharmaceuticals: Tygacil (tigecycline) - Prescribing Information.

Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.