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. However, its availability has been limited by several factors.

One significant factor is the patent landscape. Tigecycline was initially developed by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, which held the drug's patent rights until 2018 [1]. This exclusivity prevented other manufacturers from producing and distributing generic versions of the drug, thereby limiting its availability and driving up its cost.

Another factor is the drug's side effect profile. Tigecycline has been associated with an increased risk of death compared to other antibiotics, particularly in patients with respiratory infections [2]. This has led to more cautious prescribing practices and reduced overall demand for the drug.

Additionally, tigecycline's spectrum of activity is somewhat limited. It is not effective against all gram-negative bacteria, and its use is generally reserved for infections caused by organisms resistant to other antibiotics [3]. This narrow indication also limits its potential market and availability.

Lastly, tigecycline's formulation and administration may contribute to its limited availability. It is available only as an intravenous injection, which requires hospitalization or a healthcare setting for administration [4]. This can be a barrier for some patients, particularly those in remote or underserved areas.

In summary, the limited availability of tigecycline can be attributed to its patent status, side effect profile, limited spectrum of activity, and formulation and administration requirements.

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Tigecycline. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline
[2] Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. (2013). Tigecycline for the Treatment of Skin and Skin Structure Infections, Community-Acquired Pneumonia, and Complicated Intra-Abdominal Infections: A Systematic Review. Retrieved from https://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/products/tigecycline-treatment-skin-infections-community-acquired-pneumonia-complicated-intra/research
[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016). Antibiotic/Antimicrobial Drugs. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/drugresistance/biggest_threats.html
[4] Tygacil (tigecycline) for injection, for intravenous use. (2017). Full Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021867s020lbl.pdf