The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) safety review has recently issued warnings for a commonly used class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. If you or anyone in your family is taking these antibiotics, please read the drug alert carefully.
1 . What Is The Warning?
-According to the warning, serious side effects are associated with the use of fluoroquinolones.
-An FDA safety review has shown that fluoroquinolones when used systemically (i.e. tablets, capsules, and injectable) are associated with disabling and potentially permanent serious side effects that can occur together.
-These side effects can involve the tendons, muscles, joints, nerves, and central nervous system.
-Side effects generally outweigh the benefits for patients with sinusitis, bronchitis, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections who have other treatment options.
-Therefore, FDA suggests that for patients with these conditions, fluoroquinolone should be reserved for those who do not have alternative treatment options.
2 . What are Fluoroquinolones? ( Common brand names: Ciplox, Oflox, Levoflox)
-The fluoroquinolones are a family of broad spectrum antibiotics that have been used widely for various common infections like respiratory and urinary tract infections.
-Fluoroquinolones are active against a wide range of aerobic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
-Currently, there are 7 FDA-approved fluoroquinolones for systemic use on the market:Moxifloxacin,Ciprofloxacin, Gemifloxacin, Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin, and Ofloxacin.
3 . What Should The Patients Taking These Medicines Do?
-Patients should not stop taking their medicine without first talking to their doctor
Patients who take these medications should immediately consult their doctor if they develop any unusual side effects.
-These include: tendon pain, joint pain, muscle pain, a “pins and needles” tingling or pricking sensation, confusion, and hallucinations.
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