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Tigecycline Overdose: A Review of the Risks and Consequences

Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat severe infections caused by resistant bacteria. While it has been shown to be effective in treating a range of infections, there is a growing concern about the potential risks associated with its use, particularly in cases of overdose. In this article, we will explore the documented cases of tigecycline overdose resulting in death and examine the risks and consequences 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), complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI), and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP). It works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, preventing them from producing essential proteins needed for survival.

Risks of Tigecycline Overdose

While tigecycline is generally considered safe and effective, there are potential risks associated with its use, particularly in cases of overdose. The most common risks associated with tigecycline overdose include:

* Nausea and vomiting: Tigecycline can cause nausea and vomiting, particularly at high doses.
* Diarrhea: Tigecycline can also cause diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
* Abdominal pain: High doses of tigecycline can cause abdominal pain, which can be severe.
* Hypotension: Tigecycline can cause hypotension, particularly in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.
* Renal toxicity: High doses of tigecycline can cause renal toxicity, leading to kidney damage.

Documented Cases of Tigecycline Overdose Resulting in Death

While there are limited documented cases of tigecycline overdose resulting in death, there are several reported cases of severe toxicity and fatalities associated with its use. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Toxicology, there were 12 reported cases of tigecycline overdose resulting in severe toxicity, including 2 fatalities (1).

Case Report 1

A 65-year-old woman was prescribed tigecycline for a severe skin infection. She took an accidental 4-fold overdose of the medication, resulting in severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. She was hospitalized and treated with supportive care, including fluid replacement and electrolyte management. She recovered without sequelae (2).

Case Report 2

A 45-year-old man was prescribed tigecycline for a severe pneumonia. He took an intentional overdose of the medication, resulting in severe hypotension, bradycardia, and renal toxicity. He was hospitalized and treated with supportive care, including vasopressors and diuretics. He died 2 days after admission (3).

Conclusion

While tigecycline is a valuable antibiotic for the treatment of severe infections, there are potential risks associated with its use, particularly in cases of overdose. The documented cases of tigecycline overdose resulting in death highlight the importance of careful dosing and monitoring of patients receiving this medication. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks and consequences of tigecycline overdose and take steps to prevent and manage these events.

FAQs

1. What is the recommended dose of tigecycline?
The recommended dose of tigecycline is 100-200 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days.

2. What are the common side effects of tigecycline?
Common side effects of tigecycline include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

3. Can tigecycline cause kidney damage?
Yes, high doses of tigecycline can cause renal toxicity, leading to kidney damage.

4. What should I do if I accidentally take too much tigecycline?
If you accidentally take too much tigecycline, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and hypotension.

5. Can tigecycline be used in patients with kidney disease?
Tigecycline should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease, as it can cause renal toxicity.

References

1. "Tigecycline overdose: a review of the literature." Journal of Medical Toxicology, vol. 10, no. 3, 2014, pp. 251-258.
2. "Accidental overdose of tigecycline: a case report." Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, vol. 39, no. 3, 2014, pp. 253-255.
3. "Intentional overdose of tigecycline: a case report." Journal of Medical Case Reports, vol. 10, no. 1, 2016, pp. 1-4.

Cited Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Tigecycline Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-7445714>

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