AlixaRx Blog FDA Issues Safety Alert for Fluoroquinolones

Reviewing the side effects of FluoroquinolonesThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration is advising that serious side effects associated with fluoroquinolone antibacterial drugs generally outweigh the benefits for patients with sinusitis, bronchitis, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections who have other treatment options. The update issued July 27, 2016, applies to the following medications: Avelox (moxifloxacin), standard- and extended-release Cipro (ciprofloxacin), Factive (gemifloxacin), Levaquin (levofloxacin) and ofloxacin. Fluoroquinolone Side Effects: Tendon problems, tendinitis, tendon rupture (potentially disabling) Digestive distress, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, heartburn, vomiting; super-infections, including C. diff diarrhea Arthritis, muscle pain, weakness Headache, dizziness, anxiety, irritability, agitation, restlessness, confusion, insomnia Retinal detachment Allergic reactions, skin rash, anaphylaxis (life-threatening reaction requiring immediate medical attention!) Hallucinations, psychosis, seizures Depression, suicidal thoughts or actions Irregular heart rhythms, QT prolongation Kidney or liver damage Blood disorders Symptoms of Nerve Damage from Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics: Pain Numbness Changes in sensation to light touch, pain or temperature, or the sense of body position Burning, tingling, weakness Nursing staff should immediately report any new potential side effect to the prescriber. Consult your AlixaRx Clinical Pharmacist for advice on antibiotic treatment monitoring and alternative medications. References: 1. http://www.peoplespharmacy.com/2016/05/12/new-fda-warning-for-popular-cipro-and-levaquin-antibiotics/ 2. http://www.healio.com/infectious-disease/antimicrobials/news/online/%7B07a3f6d2-675a-4f97-a8e1-dcca9e129a3a%7D/fda-updates-fluoroquinolone-safety-warnings This article was originally published in our monthly issue of From the Front Lines - a monthly publication...The post FDA Issues Safety Alert for Fluoroquinolones appeared first on AlixaRx.