See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Tigecycline: A Powerful Antibiotic for Serious Infections

Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a range of serious infections, including those caused by resistant bacteria. As a member of the tetracycline family, tigecycline works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, ultimately leading to their death. In this article, we'll explore the typical tigecycline dose, its uses, and potential side effects.

What is Tigecycline Used For?

Tigecycline is approved by the FDA for the treatment of adults with complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI) caused by susceptible bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). It's also used to treat community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP) and hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia (HABP) in adults.

Typical Tigecycline Dose

The typical tigecycline dose for adults is 100 mg administered intravenously every 12 hours for 7-14 days. However, the dose may vary depending on the patient's condition, age, and weight. For example, patients with renal impairment may require a reduced dose.

How Does Tigecycline Work?

Tigecycline works by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacterial ribosomes, preventing the formation of the 70S initiation complex. This inhibits protein synthesis, ultimately leading to bacterial death.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of tigecycline can be summarized as follows:

* Binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit: Tigecycline binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing the formation of the 70S initiation complex.
* Inhibition of protein synthesis: The inhibition of protein synthesis prevents the production of essential proteins, ultimately leading to bacterial death.

Side Effects of Tigecycline

Common side effects of tigecycline include:

* Nausea and vomiting: Up to 30% of patients may experience nausea and vomiting.
* Abdominal pain: Up to 20% of patients may experience abdominal pain.
* Diarrhea: Up to 15% of patients may experience diarrhea.
* Headache: Up to 10% of patients may experience headache.

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects of tigecycline are rare but may include:

* Allergic reactions: Anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported.
* Hepatotoxicity: Tigecycline has been associated with cases of liver damage, including hepatitis and liver failure.

Interactions with Other Medications

Tigecycline may interact with other medications, including:

* Warfarin: Tigecycline may increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking warfarin.
* Antacids: Tigecycline may reduce the absorption of antacids.
* Proton pump inhibitors: Tigecycline may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects in patients taking proton pump inhibitors.

Conclusion

Tigecycline is a powerful antibiotic used to treat serious infections caused by resistant bacteria. The typical tigecycline dose is 100 mg administered intravenously every 12 hours for 7-14 days. While side effects are common, serious side effects are rare. It's essential to weigh the benefits and risks of tigecycline therapy and to monitor patients closely for any adverse reactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the typical tigecycline dose for adults?

The typical tigecycline dose for adults is 100 mg administered intravenously every 12 hours for 7-14 days.

2. What is tigecycline used for?

Tigecycline is used to treat adults with complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI), community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP), and hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia (HABP).

3. How does tigecycline work?

Tigecycline works by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacterial ribosomes, preventing the formation of the 70S initiation complex, and ultimately inhibiting protein synthesis.

4. What are the common side effects of tigecycline?

Common side effects of tigecycline include nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and headache.

5. Can tigecycline interact with other medications?

Yes, tigecycline may interact with other medications, including warfarin, antacids, and proton pump inhibitors.

Cited Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Tigecycline Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration/tigecycline>
2. FDA. (2017). Tygacil (Tigecycline) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2017/021944s022lbl.pdf>
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Retrieved from <https://www.cdc.gov/mrsa/index.html>
4. World Health Organization. (2020). Tigecycline. Retrieved from <https://www.who.int/medicines/areas/tradelaw/en/tigecycline.pdf>
5. Medscape. (2022). Tigecycline: Indications, Dosage, Side Effects, and More. Retrieved from <https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/933441>