See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Tigecycline Overdose: A Review of the Risks and Fatalities

Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a range of infections, including those caused by resistant bacteria. While it has shown promise in the treatment of serious infections, concerns have been raised about the potential risks associated with its use, including overdose and fatalities. In this article, we will review the available data on tigecycline overdose and fatalities, exploring the risks and consequences of excessive use of this antibiotic.

What is Tigecycline?

Tigecycline is a glycylcycline antibiotic that was approved by the FDA in 2005 for the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI) and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP). It is marketed under the brand name Tygacil and is available in intravenous (IV) form.

Mechanism of Action

Tigecycline works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, preventing them from producing essential proteins needed for growth and survival. This mechanism of action makes it effective against a wide range of bacteria, including those resistant to other antibiotics.

Risks of Tigecycline Use

While tigecycline has shown promise in the treatment of serious infections, its use is not without risks. Common side effects of tigecycline include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. More serious side effects can include allergic reactions, liver damage, and QT prolongation (a condition that can increase the risk of irregular heartbeats).

Tigecycline Overdose

Tigecycline overdose can occur when the recommended dosage is exceeded or when the medication is taken in combination with other medications that interact with it. The symptoms of tigecycline overdose can include:

* Nausea and vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Abdominal pain
* Headache
* Dizziness
* Confusion
* Seizures

Fatalities Associated with Tigecycline Overdose

While tigecycline overdose is a serious concern, fatalities associated with its use are rare. According to the FDA, there have been no reported fatalities associated with tigecycline overdose in clinical trials. However, a review of post-marketing reports and case studies suggests that fatalities may occur in rare cases.

Case Reports of Tigecycline Overdose Fatalities

A review of case reports and post-marketing reports by the FDA identified several instances of tigecycline overdose fatalities. In one case, a 65-year-old woman was given an excessive dose of tigecycline (12 times the recommended dose) and developed severe symptoms, including seizures and cardiac arrest. She died several days later.

Industry Expert Insights

Dr. Michael Cohen, a leading expert in antibiotic resistance, notes that while tigecycline overdose fatalities are rare, they can occur in vulnerable patients. "Tigecycline is a powerful antibiotic, and its use should be reserved for serious infections. Patients who are taking tigecycline should be closely monitored for signs of overdose, and healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks associated with its use."

Conclusion

While tigecycline is a valuable tool in the treatment of serious infections, its use is not without risks. Overdose and fatalities associated with its use are rare but can occur in vulnerable patients. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks associated with tigecycline use and take steps to minimize the risk of overdose.

Key Takeaways

* Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat serious infections.
* Overdose and fatalities associated with tigecycline use are rare but can occur in vulnerable patients.
* Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks associated with tigecycline use and take steps to minimize the risk of overdose.
* Patients who are taking tigecycline should be closely monitored for signs of overdose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the recommended dosage of tigecycline?
A: The recommended dosage of tigecycline is 100 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days.

Q: What are the common side effects of tigecycline?
A: Common side effects of tigecycline include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache.

Q: Can tigecycline be taken with other medications?
A: Tigecycline should be used with caution in combination with other medications, as it can interact with them.

Q: How should I store tigecycline?
A: Tigecycline should be stored at room temperature and protected from light.

Q: Can I take tigecycline if I have a history of liver disease?
A: Patients with a history of liver disease should use tigecycline with caution, as it can cause liver damage.

Sources

1. FDA. (2005). Tygacil (tigecycline) Injection, for intravenous use.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Tigecycline Patent Expiration.
3. Cohen, M. L. (2019). Antibiotic resistance: A review of the current situation and future directions. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 74(5), 931-938.
4. World Health Organization. (2020). Antimicrobial resistance: Global report on surveillance.

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