FDA Warns That Tygacil Side Effects Can Be Fatal

FDA Warns That Tygacil Side Effects Can Be Fatal

By John Curran

A Pfizer antibiotic is the latest in a series of drugs made by the pharmaceutical company to be required to carry new prescribing information, in this case warning patients and doctors of Tygacil side effects that can prove fatal to patients.

Tygacil is primarily used as a second-line treatment for severe bacterial infections that are resistant to other drugs, including the company’s own Zithromax. However, although these patients are already facing a compromised immune system, a U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) review of 10 clinical trials indicated a roughly 50 percent higher risk of death due to Tygacil side effects compared to other treatment options. Roughly 2.5 percent of treated individuals died after taking Tygacil, compared to 1.8 percent of patients receiving other antibiotic treatments.

While the rate is low, Pfizer has reported significant sales figures of roughly $335 million in 2012. That could increase the number of people in the United States facing risks regarding the antibiotic, according to Tygacil lawsuit attorneys. For reference, the company’s popular Zithromax antibiotic had sales of $464 million in 2011.

Now, the FDA is asking doctors to avoid using the intravenous medication unless absolutely necessary, likely restricting it to hospital-borne, drug-resistant bacterial strains. Still, in the case of both Pfizer products, the risks may be underpublicized because they only afflict certain groups. Zithromax side effects that cause heart arrhythmias affect mainly those who have a family history of heart problems. By moving it to a second-line treatment, fewer people are likely to be subject to problems resulting from Tygacil.

People who face bacterial infections of any kind should note that these conditions can progress quickly. Speak with a doctor about any potential risk factors prior to beginning treatment and be mindful of signs that you could be dealing with these side effects caused by Pfizer antibiotics.

Men and women who took Tygacil and suffered from significant side effects or adverse events may have legal options available to them. Learn more about what steps you can take when you visit the Tygacil (Tigecycline) Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. You can also fill out the short form there for a no-cost case eligibility review. One of our partner Tygacil lawsuit attorneys will review the facts of your potential complaint and help you decide what steps you can take. Get started today to avoid any issues regarding statutes of limitations and pursue the damages you may deserve based on the facts of your case.