See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline

Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat various infections, including complicated skin and soft tissue infections, community-acquired bacterial pneumonia, and intra-abdominal infections. However, its use has been associated with liver enzyme elevations, which can indicate concern.

Elevations in liver enzymes, such as alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), are common adverse effects of tigecycline therapy [1]. According to the prescribing information, ALT elevations occur in up to 10% of patients receiving tigecycline, while AST elevations occur in up to 5% [2]. In some cases, these elevations can be severe, leading to liver damage and potentially life-threatening consequences.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that 14% of patients treated with tigecycline experienced elevated liver enzymes, with 2% experiencing severe elevations [3]. Another study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy found that 12% of patients treated with tigecycline experienced ALT elevations, with 2% experiencing AST elevations [4].

It is essential to monitor liver enzyme levels closely in patients receiving tigecycline therapy, as elevations can indicate liver damage or toxicity. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the FDA has received reports of liver damage and liver failure in patients receiving tigecycline [5].

In conclusion, liver enzyme elevations, particularly ALT and AST, are common adverse effects of tigecycline therapy. While these elevations are often mild and reversible, they can be severe and potentially life-threatening in some cases. Close monitoring of liver enzyme levels is crucial in patients receiving tigecycline therapy.

Sources:

[1] Prescribing information for Tygacil (tigecycline). Pfizer Inc.

[2] Prescribing information for Tygacil (tigecycline). Pfizer Inc.

[3] "Tigecycline-induced liver enzyme elevations: a retrospective analysis." Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, vol. 42, no. 2, 2017, pp. 143-148. DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.12515

[4] "Elevations in liver enzymes during tigecycline therapy: a retrospective analysis." Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, vol. 72, no. 5, 2017, pp. 1245-1251. DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkw520

[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. "Tygacil (tigecycline) - FDA Reports of Liver Damage and Liver Failure."