FDA warns of serious side effects from certain antibiotics

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration issued a safety message late last week concerning the potential for serious side effects associated with fluoroquinolone antibiotics. 

 

The message said that for patients with sinusistis, bronchitis and uncomplicated urinary tract infections who have other treatment options, the possible side effects of fluoroquinolones — which can be disabling and potentially permanent and involve tendons, muscles, joints, nerves and the central nervous system — outweigh the benefits.  

 

The agency said it had advised drug labels and medication guides to be updated to reflect this information, and that it was investigating safety issues among these antibiotics. The FDA said patients should immediately contact their health care provider if they were experiencing serious side effects from the medication — symptoms include tendon, joint and muscle pain, confusion, hallucinations and a pins and needles tingling sensation. 

 

Health care professionals are urged to stop systemic fluoroquinolone prescribing immediately if a patient reports serious side effects and a switch to a different antibacterial drug.