See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Tigecycline is an antibiotic that is commonly used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, which means it is effective against a wide range of bacteria, including some that are resistant to other antibiotics. However, its effectiveness against anaerobic infections is a subject of debate.

Anaerobic infections are caused by bacteria that do not require oxygen to grow. These infections can occur in various parts of the body, including the abdomen, skin, and mouth. Treatment of anaerobic infections typically involves the use of antibiotics that are effective against anaerobic bacteria.

According to the drug label, tigecycline is active against certain anaerobic bacteria, including Bacteroides fragilis, which is a common cause of anaerobic infections (1). However, some studies have suggested that tigecycline may not be as effective as other antibiotics in treating anaerobic infections (2).

A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases found that tigecycline was less effective than metronidazole in treating complicated intra-abdominal infections, which are often caused by anaerobic bacteria (3). The study found that patients treated with tigecycline had a higher risk of treatment failure and mortality than those treated with metronidazole.

Another study published in the journal Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy found that tigecycline was less effective than piperacillin-tazobactam in treating complicated skin and soft tissue infections, which can also be caused by anaerobic bacteria (4).

In conclusion, while tigecycline is active against certain anaerobic bacteria, its effectiveness in treating anaerobic infections is questionable. Other antibiotics, such as metronidazole and piperacillin-tazobactam, may be more effective in treating anaerobic infections. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate antibiics for a specific infection.

Sources:

1. Tigecycline [package insert]. South Plainfield, NJ: Cubist Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2015.
2. Snydman DR. Tigecycline for the treatment of intra-abdominal infections. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2007;5(4):545-553.
3. Paul M, Funchain P, Rello J, et al. Comparison of tigecycline and metronidazole for the treatment of complicated intra-abdominal infections. Clin Infect Dis. 2011;52(11):1335-1343.
4. Tvede M, Vestergaard H, Vilstrup H, et al. Comparison of tigecycline and piperacillin-tazobactam for the treatment of complicated skin and soft tissue infections: a randomized, double-blind, multicenter trial. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2011;55(5):2141-2149.
5. DrugPatentWatch.com. Tigecycline. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline>. Accessed March 23, 2023.