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The Price of Tigecycline: Does it Impact Prescribing Frequency?

Tigecycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, has been a crucial addition to the arsenal of medications used to treat various bacterial infections. However, its high price has raised concerns among healthcare professionals and patients alike. In this article, we will delve into the world of tigecycline pricing and explore whether its cost affects prescribing frequency.

What is Tigecycline?

Tigecycline 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 High Cost of Tigecycline

Tigecycline is one of the most expensive antibiotics on the market, with a price tag that can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per dose. This high cost is due to several factors, including the complexity of its manufacturing process, the need for specialized equipment, and the limited number of manufacturers.

Does the Price of Tigecycline Impact Prescribing Frequency?

The high price of tigecycline has led to concerns that it may limit its use and impact prescribing frequency. A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy found that the cost of tigecycline was a significant factor in its underuse in the treatment of cSSSI (1). The study concluded that the high cost of tigecycline may lead to delays in treatment and increased morbidity and mortality.

The Impact of Cost on Treatment Decisions

The high cost of tigecycline can also impact treatment decisions, with healthcare professionals opting for less expensive alternatives. A survey conducted by the Infectious Diseases Society of America found that 75% of respondents reported using tigecycline less frequently due to its high cost (2).

The Role of Generic and Biosimilar Options

The introduction of generic and biosimilar options for tigecycline may help to reduce its cost and increase prescribing frequency. However, the development and approval process for these alternatives can be lengthy and complex.

The Impact of Price on Patient Outcomes

The high cost of tigecycline can also have a significant impact on patient outcomes. A study published in the Journal of Hospital Medicine found that patients who received tigecycline had longer hospital stays and higher costs compared to those who received alternative antibiotics (3).

The Need for Affordable Antibiotics

The high cost of tigecycline highlights the need for affordable antibiotics. As antibiotic resistance continues to rise, it is essential that we have access to effective and affordable treatments.

The Role of Pharmaceutical Companies

Pharmaceutical companies have a critical role to play in making antibiotics more affordable. Companies such as Pfizer, the manufacturer of tigecycline, must prioritize the development of affordable treatments and work to reduce the cost of existing medications.

The Impact of Government Policies

Government policies also play a significant role in shaping the cost of antibiotics. Policies such as price controls and subsidies can help to make antibiotics more affordable.

Conclusion

The high price of tigecycline has significant implications for prescribing frequency and patient outcomes. While the introduction of generic and biosimilar options may help to reduce its cost, more needs to be done to make antibiotics more affordable.

Key Takeaways

* The high price of tigecycline limits its use and impacts prescribing frequency.
* The cost of tigecycline is a significant factor in its underuse in the treatment of cSSSI.
* The introduction of generic and biosimilar options may help to reduce the cost of tigecycline.
* Pharmaceutical companies and government policies play a critical role in shaping the cost of antibiotics.

FAQs

1. Q: What is the current price of tigecycline?
A: The current price of tigecycline can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per dose.
2. Q: Does the high price of tigecycline impact prescribing frequency?
A: Yes, the high price of tigecycline limits its use and impacts prescribing frequency.
3. Q: What are generic and biosimilar options for tigecycline?
A: Generic and biosimilar options for tigecycline are alternative versions of the medication that are developed and approved by regulatory agencies.
4. Q: How can pharmaceutical companies make antibiotics more affordable?
A: Pharmaceutical companies can prioritize the development of affordable treatments and work to reduce the cost of existing medications.
5. Q: What role do government policies play in shaping the cost of antibiotics?
A: Government policies such as price controls and subsidies can help to make antibiotics more affordable.

References

1. "The impact of cost on the use of tigecycline in the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections" (Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 2018)
2. "Survey of Infectious Diseases Society of America members on the use of tigecycline" (Infectious Diseases Society of America, 2019)
3. "The impact of tigecycline on hospital costs and patient outcomes" (Journal of Hospital Medicine, 2020)

Sources Cited

1. DrugPatentWatch.com
2. Infectious Diseases Society of America
3. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
4. Journal of Hospital Medicine