Tigecycline is an intravenous antibiotic used to treat severe infections, including complicated skin/structure infections, intra-abdominal infections, and community-acquired pneumonia in patients 18 and older. It works by stopping bacterial growth and is often used for resistant bacteria. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache.
Key Uses and Indications
- Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections: Treats infections of the skin and surrounding tissues.
- Complicated Intra-abdominal Infections: Treats severe infections in the stomach area.
- Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia: Used for lung infections developed outside of the hospital.
- Targeted Bacterial Growth: Effective against various microorganisms, including some multi-drug resistant strains.
- Limitations: It is not indicated for diabetic foot infections or hospital-acquired/ventilator-associated pneumonia.
Important Safety Information
- Side Effects: The most common adverse effects are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and headaches.
- Administration: It is administered by a healthcare professional via intravenous (IV) infusion.
- Warning: It is not for viral infections like cold or flu.