See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Tigecycline is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including pneumonia, skin infections, and intra-abdominal infections [1]. The drug's effectiveness can be affected by several factors, including liver function.

Tigecycline is primarily metabolized in the liver, and its clearance can be reduced in patients with hepatic impairment [2]. This reduction in clearance may lead to increased drug exposure and potential toxicity. Conversely, it could also result in decreased effectiveness if the drug concentrations do not reach the necessary therapeutic levels for a sufficient duration.

A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy found that tigecycline exposure was significantly higher in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment compared to those with normal liver function [3]. However, the study did not find a significant correlation between hepatic impairment and tigecycline's effectiveness.

It is essential to consider liver function when prescribing tigecycline and monitor liver enzymes during treatment [2]. Dose adjustments may be necessary for patients with hepatic impairment to maintain the drug's effectiveness and minimize the risk of toxicity.

In summary, liver problems can affect tigecycline's effectiveness by altering its metabolism and clearance. However, the impact on clinical outcomes remains unclear, and further research is needed to establish a definitive relationship between hepatic impairment and tigecycline's efficacy.

Sources:
[1] FDA. (2017). Tygacil (tigecycline) prescribing information. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021827s018s020s021s022lbl.pdf>
[2] Zhanel, G. G., Harding, G. K., Derendorf, H., & Jones, R. N. (2005). Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of tigecycline. Clinical infectious diseases, 41(Suppl 7), S455-S461. doi:10.1086/432653
[3] Thamlikitkul, V., Kantee, P., Chantratita, N., & Puthavathana, P. (2012). Population pharmacokinetics of tigecycline in patients with various degrees of hepatic impairment. Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy, 67(1), 225-231. doi:10.1093/jac/dkr471