See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Tigecycline is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including pneumonia, skin infections, and intra-abdominal infections. According to the drug's prescribing information, hepatotoxicity, or liver damage, is a potential side effect of tigecycline use [1].

In a study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, tigecycline was found to be associated with a higher risk of liver enzyme elevations compared to other antibiotics [2]. Liver enzyme elevations can indicate liver damage or inflammation. However, the study also noted that the majority of these elevations were asymptomatic and resolved spontaneously.

The prescribing information for tigecycline recommends monitoring liver function tests in patients receiving the drug, particularly those with pre-existing liver disease [1]. The drug's label also carries a warning about the potential for hepatotoxicity.

In summary, tigecycline can cause liver damage, as indicated by liver enzyme elevations. However, the majority of these cases are asymptomatic and resolve spontaneously. Patients with pre-existing liver disease should be monitored closely while receiving tigecycline.

Sources:
[1] Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Inc. "TIGECYCLINE [tigecycline] for injection, for intravenous use. Full Prescribing Information." January 2010. <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/021867s007lbl.pdf>.
[2] Butt, A. et al. "Hepatotoxicity associated with tigecycline: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. Volume 69, Issue 12, December 2014, Pages 3351-3359. <https://academic.oup.com/jac/article/69/12/3351/843847>.