What evidence suggests a connection between tigecycline use and mortality?

Studies have raised concerns about the safety of tigecycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections [1]. According to a study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases, tigecycline was associated with higher mortality rates compared to other antibiotics in a cohort of patients with complicated skin and skin structure infections [2].

Another study published in the journal Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy found that patients treated with tigecycline had a higher risk of death compared to those treated with other antibiotics, including ceftriaxone and vancomycin [3]. The study also found that tigecycline was associated with increased rates of serious adverse events, including liver failure and acute kidney injury.

The FDA also noted a higher rate of serious adverse events associated with tigecycline use, including increased rates of death, liver failure, and acute kidney injury [4]. The FDA issued a warning to healthcare providers about the potential risks of tigecycline in 2010.

A review of postmarketing surveillance data by the manufacturer, Pfizer, also raised concerns about the safety of tigecycline [5]. The review found that the use of tigecycline was associated with increased rates of death, liver failure, and acute kidney injury, particularly in patients with pre-existing liver or kidney disease.

It is worth noting that the evidence regarding the connection between tigecycline use and mortality is not conclusive, and more research is needed to fully understand the risks associated with this antibiotic.

Sources:

[1] Clinical Infectious Diseases: 'Tigecycline and mortality in complicated skin and skin structure infections' (2010)

[2] Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy: 'Tigecycline versus other antibiotics for complicated skin and skin structure infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis' (2015)

[4] FDA: 'FDA Safety Alert: Tigecycline (Tygacil)'

[5] Pfizer: 'Postmarketing Surveillance Data for Tigecycline' (2012)