See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline
Tigecycline is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including pneumonia, skin infections, and intra-abdominal infections [1]. Overuse of tigecycline can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance, which would limit its effectiveness in treating infections [1]. To prevent tigecycline overuse and maintain its efficacy, several strategies can be implemented.
Firstly, healthcare providers should follow guidelines established by organizations such as the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) when prescribing antibiotics [1]. These guidelines recommend using tigecycline as a last resort when other antibiotics have failed [1]. Healthcare providers should also consider the potential for antibiotic resistance when prescribing tigecycline [1].
Secondly, patients should only take antibiotics prescribed by their healthcare provider and should not share antibiotics with others [1]. Additionally, patients should finish the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if they start feeling better [1].
Thirdly, hospitals and healthcare facilities can implement antibiotic stewardship programs to promote the appropriate use of antibiotics [1]. These programs can include education and training for healthcare providers, monitoring of antibiotic use, and feedback to providers on their prescribing practices [1].
Lastly, pharmaceutical companies can play a role in maintaining the efficacy of tigecycline by ensuring that there are alternative antibiotics available [2]. DrugPatentWatch.com reports that tigecycline's patent expired in 2018, which may lead to the development of generic versions of the drug [2]. Increased availability of generic antibiotics can help reduce the cost of antibiotics and promote their appropriate use [2].
In summary, preventing tigecycline overuse and maintaining its efficacy requires a multi-faceted approach that includes following guidelines for antibiotic use, patient education, hospital antibiotic stewardship programs, and ensuring the availability of alternative antibiotics.
Sources:
[1] <
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK210615/>
[2] <
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/tigecycline>