WARNING

Tigecycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. However, like all medications, it carries potential risks and side effects. Some of the risks associated with Tigecycline injection include:

• Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms may range from mild to severe and can sometimes lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.
• Liver Toxicity: Tigecycline can cause liver damage, which may manifest as elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis. Patients with pre-existing liver conditions may be at higher risk.
• Kidney Toxicity: There have been reports of kidney damage associated with Tigecycline use, particularly when used in high doses or for prolonged periods.
• Increased Risk of Infections: Like other antibiotics, Tigecycline can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the body, leading to the overgrowth of harmful bacteria or fungi, such as Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infection or fungal infections.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Tigecycline, ranging from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.
• Development of Resistance: Overuse or misuse of Tigecycline can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making future infections more difficult to treat.
• Effect on Growth in Children: Limited data suggest that Tigecycline may affect bone growth and development in pediatric patients, particularly when used for long durations or in high doses.
• Phototoxicity: Tigecycline can increase sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn or skin reactions when exposed to UV radiation.

It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or potential risks with your healthcare provider before starting Tigecycline treatment. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the specific circumstances of your condition.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Tigecycline injection is prescribed to treat certain types of bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called glycylcyclines and works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.

Tigecycline injection is typically used to treat complicated skin and skin structure infections, complicated intra-abdominal infections, and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia. It may be prescribed when other antibiotics have failed or when the infection is known or suspected to be caused by bacteria resistant to other antibiotics.

How should this medicine be used?

Tigecycline injection is typically administered intravenously (into a vein) by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinical setting. The dosage and duration of treatment vary depending on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient’s age, weight, and overall health.

It’s essential to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when using Tigecycline injection. The medication is usually given slowly over a period of 30 to 60 minutes to minimize the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished, to ensure the infection is completely eradicated and to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns or questions about Tigecycline injection with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and the specific circumstances of your condition.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses of Tigecycline injection include:

• Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria.
• Complicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by resistant organisms.
• Intra-abdominal infections caused by resistant bacteria, especially in critically ill patients.
• Certain types of bloodstream infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria.
• Infective endocarditis, particularly in cases where traditional treatments are ineffective or contraindicated.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Tigecycline injection to ensure safe and effective treatment. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind:

• Allergic Reactions: Patients should be monitored for signs of allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Immediate medical attention should be sought if any allergic symptoms occur.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Tigecycline can affect liver and kidney function, so patients with pre-existing liver or kidney problems should be closely monitored during treatment.
• Photosensitivity: Tigecycline may increase sensitivity to sunlight, so patients should avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Tigecycline during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established, so it should be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women, weighing the potential benefits against the risks.
• Pediatric Use: Tigecycline is not approved for use in children under the age of 18, except in certain circumstances where other treatment options are not available or suitable.
• Antibiotic Resistance: Overuse or misuse of Tigecycline can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, so it should only be used when necessary and as directed by a healthcare professional.
• Drug Interactions: Tigecycline may interact with other medications, so patients should inform their healthcare provider about all the medications they are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns or questions about Tigecycline injection with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the specific circumstances of your condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, Tigecycline injection can typically be administered without regard to meals. However, always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding any specific dietary restrictions or recommendations.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Tigecycline injection, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist immediately for guidance. It’s important to take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Tigecycline injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects of Tigecycline injection may include:

• Nausea and vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms are among the most commonly reported side effects of Tigecycline.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea is another common gastrointestinal side effect that may occur during Tigecycline treatment.
• Abdominal pain: Some individuals may experience abdominal discomfort or pain while using Tigecycline injection.
• Headache: Headaches are a relatively common side effect associated with Tigecycline treatment.
• Dizziness: Some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded while receiving Tigecycline injection.
• Skin reactions: Skin reactions such as rash, itching, or redness may occur in some individuals.
• Elevated liver enzymes: Tigecycline can cause liver function abnormalities, leading to elevated liver enzyme levels in some patients.
• Injection site reactions: Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site may occur with Tigecycline injection.
• Decreased appetite: Some individuals may experience a decreased appetite or changes in taste while using Tigecycline.
• Yeast infections: Tigecycline can disrupt the balance of normal flora in the body, leading to the overgrowth of yeast and potentially causing vaginal yeast infections in women.
• Clostridium difficile infection: Tigecycline use can increase the risk of developing Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, a potentially severe and life-threatening condition.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects not listed here. Additionally, some side effects may require medical attention, especially if they are severe or persistent. If you experience any concerning side effects while using Tigecycline injection, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider for guidance and appropriate management.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of trimethobenzamide:

Storage:

• Follow instructions: Store Tigecycline injection as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. It is typically stored at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Do not freeze: Do not freeze Tigecycline injection. Freezing may affect the stability and effectiveness of the medication.
• Keep out of reach of children: Store Tigecycline injection in a secure location out of the reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Dispose properly: Dispose of unused or expired Tigecycline injection properly according to local regulations. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so.
• Take-back programs: Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare facility for information on medication take-back programs or community disposal options.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Tigecycline injection, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. Be sure to bring the Tigecycline packaging or container with you to provide important information to healthcare providers.

What other information should I know?

• Drug interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements, as they may interact with Tigecycline.
• Effectiveness: Tigecycline is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, but it will not treat viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
• Completing the course: It’s essential to complete the full course of Tigecycline treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better before the medication is finished. Stopping the medication too early may result in the infection not being fully treated and could contribute to antibiotic resistance.
• Follow-up: Follow up with your healthcare provider as scheduled to monitor your response to treatment and address any concerns or side effects.
• Patient information leaflet: Read the patient information leaflet provided with Tigecycline injection for detailed instructions on proper use, side effects, and other important information.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about Tigecycline injection or its use. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual needs and circumstances.