FDA Advises To Restrict Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic Use

In July 2016, the FDA issued safety information about the systemic use of antibacterial drug. fluoroquinolone.  Current fluoroquinolone drugs include:

*  Avelox
*  Cipro
*  Levaquin
*  Moxifloxacin
*  Ofloxacin

An FDA safety review has shown that fluoroquinolones when taken systemically are associated with side effects of nerve damage that can be disabling and potentially permanent, involving tendons, muscles, and joints.  The FDA is advising that these potential side effects outweigh the benefits for patients with infections including sinusitis, bronchitis, and urinary tract infections.  Therefore, fluoroquinolones should be reserved for patients with these conditions that do not have other treatment options.  Signs and symptoms of side effects include “pins and needle” tingling sensation, tendon, muscle, and joint pain, confusion, and hallucination.  If side effects are reported by patients, health providers need to immediately stop the fluoroquinolone treatment and prescribe another antibiotic.