New Antibiotic Approved

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new antibiotic.

It's called Baxdela (delafloxacin). The FDA approved it to treat bacterial skin and skin structure infections in adults.

This medication is only approved to treat bacterial infections — not infections caused by viruses because antibiotics do not kill viruses.

Delafloxacin belongs to a class of medications called fluoroquinolones. It's available as an injection to be given into the vein and as a tablet to be taken by mouth.

This medication holds a boxed warning that points to the risk of swelling of the tendon (tendinitis) and tendon rupture, as well as changes in sensation, possible nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy) and central nervous system side effects like seizures.

As with all antibiotics, it's important to finish the prescribed course of delafloxacin to ensure it kills the bacteria. Even if you start to feel better, do not stop taking this medication until you have finished it.

Common side effects of Baxdela include nausea, diarrhea and headache. This medication may cause dizziness and lightheadedness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

Ask your health care provider any questions you have about treating skin infections.

Melinta Therapeutics manufactures Baxdela.