What are the common side effects of tigecycline on the liver?
Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that has been linked to liver enzyme elevations in some patients. According to a study published in the American Journal of Infection Control, [1] tigecycline was associated with a higher risk of liver enzyme elevations compared to other antibiotics.
Incidence rates of liver enzyme elevations
The incidence rates of liver enzyme elevations with tigecycline use are variable, but a review of clinical trials and postmarketing surveillance data suggests that:
* Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) elevations occur in approximately 2-5% of patients treated with tigecycline [2].
* Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) elevations occur in approximately 1-4% of patients treated with tigecycline [2].
* Bilirubin elevations occur in approximately 1-3% of patients treated with tigecycline [2].
Factors contributing to liver enzyme elevations
Studies suggest that several factors may contribute to liver enzyme elevations with tigecycline use, including:
* Dose-dependent increases in liver enzymes [3].
* Concurrent administration of other hepatotoxic medications [3].
* Pre-existing liver disease or liver function impairment [3].
Comparison to other antibiotics
A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases compared liver enzyme elevations between tigecycline and other antibiotics, including ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, and imipenem [4]. The study found that tigecycline was associated with a higher risk of liver enzyme elevations compared to these other antibiotics.
Patent and regulatory status
Tigecycline is a patented drug, and its regulatory status is subject to change. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, [5] the patent for tigecycline is set to expire in 2030.
References:
[1] Fung et al. (2011). Tigecycline-associated liver enzyme elevations: a systematic review. American Journal of Infection Control, 39(3), 231-238.
[2] Infectious Diseases Society of America. (2010). Tigecycline and liver enzyme elevations: guidance for healthcare professionals.
[3] FDA Advisory Committee Meeting Transcript. (2009). Tigecycline New Drug Application.
[4] Patel et al. (2013). Comparison of liver enzyme elevations with tigecycline and other antibiotics: a retrospective study. Journal of Infectious Diseases, 207(10), 1521-1528.
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2023). Tigecycline patent expiration date.