See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Tigecycline is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including complicated skin and intra-abdominal infections, community-acquired pneumonia, and diabetic foot infections [1]. Given its potential for use in severe infections, appropriate administration is crucial to ensure its effectiveness and minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance. Stewardship programs employ several strategies for appropriate tigecycline administration [2]:

1. **Dosage optimization**: Tigecycline's recommended dosage is 100 mg initially, followed by 50 mg every 12 hours for subsequent doses [1]. Stewardship programs ensure that healthcare providers adhere to these guidelines, considering patient-specific factors such as renal and hepatic function [2].

2. **Duration of therapy**: Stewardship programs promote evidence-based durations of therapy for tigecycline, balancing the need for sufficient treatment with the risk of antibiotic resistance and collateral damage to the microbiome [2].

3. **De-escalation**: Stewardship programs encourage de-escalation of antibiotics, including tigecycline, once microbiological results are available. This approach reduces unnecessary antibiotic exposure and minimizes the risk of antibiotic resistance [2].

4. **Monitoring and feedback**: Stewardship programs monitor antibiotic use and provide regular feedback to healthcare providers, promoting adherence to recommended guidelines and facilitating continuous improvement [2].

5. **Education and awareness**: Stewardship programs prioritize education and awareness among healthcare providers regarding the appropriate use of tigecycline and other antibiotics, emphasizing the importance of adhering to recommended guidelines [2].

It is essential to note that tigecycline's patent expired in 2018, leading to the availability of generic versions [3]. This development may impact stewardship programs' strategies, as generic options can increase accessibility and affordability [4]. However, stewardship programs must continue emphasizing appropriate administration and utilization to maintain tigecycline's effectiveness and minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Sources:

1. FDA. (2017). Tygacil (tigecycline) tablets and injection. <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021867s023lbl.pdf>
2. Dellit, T. M., Owens, R. C., & McGowan, J. E. (2007). Stewardship of antimicrobial agents in hospitals. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 44(2), 159-169. <https://doi.org/10.1086/510433>
3. DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Tigecycline. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline>
4. US Food and Drug Administration. (2018, April 13). FDA approves first generic of Tygacil to treat certain bacterial infections [Press release]. <https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-generic-tygacil-treat-certain-bacterial-infections>