Tigecycline: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Interactions

Summary of Key Points

Tigecycline is an antibiotic used to treat various serious bacterial infections, including complicated skin infections, intra-abdominal infections, and pneumonia. It works by preventing bacterial growth. Tigecycline is typically administered through an injection and is reserved for infections that cannot be treated with other antibiotics. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available to assist with managing your treatment.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Tygacil

Generic Name: Tigecycline

The generic name refers to the active ingredient, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. The generic name for Tygacil is Tigecycline.

Pharmacologic Category

Tetracycline-class antibiotics

Tigecycline belongs to the tetracycline class of antibiotics, which treat a wide range of bacterial infections by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis.

Tigecycline Dosage

The dosage of Tigecycline varies depending on the type of infection being treated. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and never adjust your dose without consulting your doctor. If you need assistance, our telemedicine providers are available to guide you.

1. Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections: Initial dose of 100 mg, followed by 50 mg every 12 hours for 5 to 14 days.
2. Complicated Intra-abdominal Infections: Initial dose of 100 mg, followed by 50 mg every 12 hours for 5 to 14 days.
3. Community-Acquired Pneumonia: Initial dose of 100 mg, followed by 50 mg every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days.
4. Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia: Not typically recommended due to higher mortality rates. Consult your healthcare provider for alternatives.
5. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Tigecycline is not commonly used for UTIs. Discuss appropriate treatment options with your healthcare provider.
6. Bacteremia and Septicemia: Tigecycline is not a first-line treatment for bloodstream infections. Consult your healthcare provider for more information.
7. Osteomyelitis (Bone Infection): Tigecycline is not commonly used for bone infections. Discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider.
8. Intra-abdominal Abscess: Initial dose of 100 mg, followed by 50 mg every 12 hours for 5 to 14 days.
9. Diabetic Foot Infections: Tigecycline is not typically recommended for diabetic foot infections. Consult your healthcare provider for alternatives.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Intravenous (IV) powder for solution: 50 mg per vial

Administration Instructions for Tigecycline

Tigecycline is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion, typically over 30 to 60 minutes. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the timing and frequency of doses. If you experience side effects or have concerns, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Our telemedicine team is available to assist with any questions or concerns.

Tigecycline Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Like all medications, Tigecycline can cause side effects. Some are common, while others are rare but serious. If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Common Side Effects

1. Nausea and Vomiting: Occurs in about 20-30% of patients. This is the most common side effect and may improve over time.
2. Diarrhea: Can occur in some patients. If it becomes severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider.

Less Common Side Effects

1. Headache: May occur in some patients but is generally mild.
2. Dizziness: Some patients may feel lightheaded or dizzy.

Serious Side Effects

1. Severe Allergic Reactions: Rare but may include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
2. Severe Diarrhea (C. difficile-associated diarrhea): This can be life-threatening. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe or bloody diarrhea.
3. Liver Problems: Rare but serious. Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe fatigue.

Contraindications for Tigecycline

A contraindication is a medical reason or condition that makes it unsafe to take a certain medication. If you have any of the following conditions, you should not take Tigecycline, as it could cause harm or worsen your condition.

1. Allergy to Tigecycline or other tetracyclines: If you have a known allergy to Tigecycline or other tetracycline antibiotics (such as doxycycline or minocycline), taking Tigecycline could cause a severe allergic reaction, which may be life-threatening.
2. Severe liver disease: Tigecycline is processed by the liver. If you have severe liver disease, your body may not handle the medication properly, leading to dangerous side effects or toxicity.
3. Pregnancy (second and third trimesters): Tigecycline can harm an unborn baby, especially during the later stages of pregnancy. It may affect bone and tooth development in the fetus.
4. Children under 8 years of age: Tigecycline is not recommended for young children as it can cause permanent tooth discoloration and affect bone growth.

Tigecycline Drug Interactions

Some medications can interact with Tigecycline, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of one or both drugs. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Below are some common medications that may interact with Tigecycline:

1. Warfarin (Coumadin): Tigecycline may increase the effects of warfarin, a blood thinner, raising the risk of bleeding.
2. Oral contraceptives (birth control pills): Tigecycline may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy. You may need to use an additional form of contraception while taking Tigecycline.
3. Anticoagulants: Other blood thinners, such as heparin or enoxaparin (Lovenox), may also interact with Tigecycline, increasing the risk of bleeding.
4. Immunosuppressants: Medications like tacrolimus (Prograf) or cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune) may be affected by Tigecycline, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing side effects.

Tigecycline in Pregnancy

Is it safe to take Tigecycline when pregnant?

Tigecycline is generally not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. This is because the medication can cross the placenta and potentially interfere with the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider to explore safer alternatives. If you are already taking Tigecycline and discover you are pregnant, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss your options. Our telemedicine providers are also available to help you make the best decision for both your health and your baby’s well-being.

Tigecycline while Breastfeeding

Is it safe to take Tigecycline while breastfeeding?

Tigecycline is not recommended for use while breastfeeding. The medication can pass into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant’s bone and tooth development. If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, speak with your healthcare provider about safer alternatives. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options in more detail.

Estimated Cost of Tigecycline Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Tigecycline without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,000. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and your location. Be sure to check GoodRx or other discount programs to find the most affordable option available to you.

Possible Alternatives to Tigecycline

If Tigecycline is not suitable for you, there are alternative treatments available for the conditions it is commonly prescribed for. Always discuss these options with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also consult with one of our telemedicine providers to explore these alternatives.

Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections

Alternatives may include antibiotics such as vancomycin, linezolid (Zyvox), or daptomycin (Cubicin). In some cases, proper wound care and drainage may also be necessary.

Complicated Intra-Abdominal Infections

Other antibiotics, such as piperacillin/tazobactam (Zosyn) or meropenem (Merrem), may be used. In certain situations, surgical intervention may also be required.

Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Alternatives include levofloxacin (Levaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), or azithromycin (Zithromax). Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and staying up to date on vaccinations, can also help prevent future infections.

Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia

Treatment options include antibiotics like cefepime (Maxipime) or meropenem (Merrem). Proper ventilator care and hygiene are also critical in preventing this condition.

Urinary Tract Infections

Common alternatives include ciprofloxacin (Cipro), nitrofurantoin (Macrobid), or trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim). Staying hydrated and practicing good hygiene can also help prevent UTIs.

Bacteremia

Treatment may involve antibiotics such as vancomycin or ceftriaxone (Rocephin). In severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be necessary.

Septicemia

This is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics like piperacillin/tazobactam (Zosyn) or meropenem (Merrem). Supportive care in a hospital setting is often required.

Osteomyelitis

Long-term antibiotic therapy with medications like vancomycin or ceftriaxone (Rocephin) is often necessary. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove infected tissue.

Intra-Abdominal Abscess

Treatment typically involves antibiotics such as metronidazole (Flagyl) or ceftriaxone (Rocephin), and drainage of the abscess may be necessary.

Diabetic Foot Infections

Alternatives include antibiotics like amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin) or clindamycin (Cleocin). Proper foot care, blood sugar control, and wound management are also essential in treating diabetic foot infections.

Recent Updates on Tigecycline Research

Recent studies have focused on the use of Tigecycline for multi-drug resistant infections, particularly in hospital settings. Research indicates that Tigecycline may be effective against certain resistant bacteria, such as carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). However, there are concerns about its effectiveness in bloodstream infections, as some studies suggest Tigecycline may not reach high enough concentrations in the blood to be fully effective. Ongoing research is exploring ways to optimize dosing and improve outcomes for patients with severe infections. If you have questions about how this research might impact your treatment, our telemedicine providers are available to discuss the latest findings and how they apply to your care.

James Kingsley

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