FDA Warns About Common Antibiotics

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a drug safety announcement for a specific class of antibiotics.

That class of antibiotics is fluoroquinolones. These antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat several bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, sinusitis, bronchitis and urinary tract infections.

The FDA is cautioning that the side effects of this class of antibiotics may outweigh the benefits for patients who have other treatment options when treating sinusitis, bronchitis and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.

The potential side effects include those that affect the tendons, muscles, joints, nerves and even central nervous system.

The FDA is requiring the prescribing information to include this safety information for all fluoroquinolone antibiotics. These include moxifloxacin (brand name Avelox), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), gemifloxacin (Factive), levofloxacin (Levaquin) and ofloxacin (Floxin).

The FDA recommends that patients taking any of these antibiotics contact their health care professional immediately if they experience serious side effects, such as:

• Tendon, joint and muscle pain
• A “pins-and-needles” tingling or pricking sensation
• Confusion
• Hallucinations

Speak to your health care professional about any questions or concerns.