See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Yes, tigecycline can cause severe diarrhea. Tigecycline is an antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including skin infections, intra-abdominal infections, and community-acquired pneumonia. However, like many antibiotics, tigecycline can cause a range of side effects, including severe diarrhea.

According to the drug label for tigecycline, diarrhea is a common side effect of the medication, occurring in up to 29% of patients who take the drug. In some cases, the diarrhea can be severe and may be accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, and blood in the stool. This type of diarrhea is known as Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

The drug label advises healthcare providers to consider the possibility of CDAD in patients who develop diarrhea while taking tigecycline, and to take appropriate measures to manage the condition. Healthcare providers are also advised to consider the risks and benefits of continuing tigecycline therapy in patients who develop CDAD.

It is important to note that while tigecycline can cause severe diarrhea, this side effect is relatively rare, and the majority of patients who take the medication do not experience significant gastrointestinal symptoms. However, if you are taking tigecycline and develop severe or persistent diarrhea, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

Sources:

1. Tigecycline [prescribing information]. Pfizer Labs; 2017. Available at: <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021867s022lbl.pdf>.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. Tigecycline. Available at: <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline>.