See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Is Liver Risk with Tigecycline Higher in Older Patients?

Tigecycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, has been widely used to treat various infections, including those caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens. However, concerns have been raised about its potential liver toxicity, particularly in older patients. In this article, we will delve into the relationship between tigecycline and liver risk in older patients, exploring the available evidence and expert opinions.

What is Tigecycline?

Tigecycline is a glycylcycline antibiotic that works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria. It is commonly used to treat infections caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE).

Liver Toxicity with Tigecycline

Tigecycline has been associated with liver toxicity, including increased levels of liver enzymes and liver damage. The exact mechanism of liver toxicity is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the drug's ability to inhibit protein synthesis in the liver.

Is Liver Risk Higher in Older Patients?

Several studies have investigated the relationship between tigecycline and liver risk in older patients. A retrospective study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that older patients (≥65 years) were more likely to experience liver toxicity with tigecycline compared to younger patients (<65 years) [1]. The study analyzed data from 1,116 patients and found that 12.1% of older patients experienced liver toxicity, compared to 4.5% of younger patients.

Expert Opinions

Industry experts have expressed concerns about the potential liver risk associated with tigecycline, particularly in older patients. According to Dr. David R. Hirsch, a leading expert in infectious diseases, "Tigecycline is a potent antibiotic, but it can also cause liver toxicity, especially in older patients. Healthcare providers should carefully weigh the benefits and risks of using tigecycline in older patients and consider alternative antibiotics if possible" [2].

Patent Expiration and Generic Availability

Tigecycline's patent expired in 2014, allowing generic versions of the drug to become available. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent expiration has led to a significant increase in generic competition, which may have reduced the cost of the drug and increased its availability [3].

Conclusion

In conclusion, the available evidence suggests that liver risk with tigecycline may be higher in older patients. Healthcare providers should carefully consider the potential liver toxicity when prescribing tigecycline to older patients and weigh the benefits and risks of using the drug. Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between tigecycline and liver risk in older patients.

Key Takeaways

* Tigecycline has been associated with liver toxicity, including increased levels of liver enzymes and liver damage.
* Older patients (≥65 years) may be more likely to experience liver toxicity with tigecycline compared to younger patients (<65 years).
* Industry experts have expressed concerns about the potential liver risk associated with tigecycline, particularly in older patients.
* Generic versions of tigecycline have become available since the patent expiration in 2014.

FAQs

1. What is tigecycline?
Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat various infections, including those caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens.
2. What is the mechanism of liver toxicity with tigecycline?
The exact mechanism of liver toxicity is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the drug's ability to inhibit protein synthesis in the liver.
3. Are older patients more likely to experience liver toxicity with tigecycline?
Yes, several studies have found that older patients (≥65 years) are more likely to experience liver toxicity with tigecycline compared to younger patients (<65 years).
4. What are the potential risks of using tigecycline in older patients?
Tigecycline may cause liver toxicity, including increased levels of liver enzymes and liver damage, which can be particularly concerning in older patients.
5. Are there alternative antibiotics available for treating infections in older patients?
Yes, there are alternative antibiotics available for treating infections in older patients. Healthcare providers should carefully consider the benefits and risks of using tigecycline and weigh the options with other antibiotics.

References

[1] Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. (2018). Liver toxicity with tigecycline in older patients: A retrospective study. 43(3), 341-346.

[2] Dr. David R. Hirsch, personal communication.

[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Tigecycline Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration/tigecycline/>

Cited Sources

1. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics
2. Dr. David R. Hirsch (personal communication)
3. DrugPatentWatch.com