(RxWiki News) The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently updated its warnings about a common class of antibiotics.
According to the FDA, patient cases and recent studies do not support reports that a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones may lead to detachment of the retina in the eyes or bulges or tears in the aorta blood vessel.
Fluoroquinolones are often prescribed to treat bacterial infections like pneumonia, sinusitis, bronchitis and urinary tract infections. Medications in this class include moxifloxacin (brand name Avelox), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), gemifloxacin (Factive), levofloxacin (Levaquin) and ofloxacin (Floxin).
FDA officials said they will continue to assess the safety of these antibiotics. The agency will update the public if more information or recommendations arise.
Last year, the FDA issued a drug safety announcement for this class of antibiotics. The FDA cautioned at that time that the side effects of this class of antibiotics may outweigh the benefits for patients who have other treatment options for sinusitis, bronchitis or uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
The FDA also approved changes to the labels of these medications regarding potentially permanent side effects involving tendons, muscles, joints, nerves and the central nervous system.
Patients should contact their health care professional right away if they experience any serious side effects while taking a fluoroquinolone.
Speak to your health care professional about any questions or concerns you may have.
