Identifying the Best Initial Oral Antibiotics for Adults with Community-Acquired Pneumonia: A Network Meta-Analysis
Analysis (24 RCTs; n=9361) found a trend towards a better clinical response and lower mortality for quinolones when used empirically in the treatment of CAP, but there was no evidence for one being clearly better than another. More data are needed to inform guidance in this area.
Source:
Journal of General Internal Medicine
SPS commentary:
Systemic fluoroquinolones can cause long-lasting disabling and potentially irreversible side effects. Restrictions on their use were introduced in 2019 to minimise the risk of these reactions. However, following a review of the effectiveness of these measures, the MHRA has introduced additional regulatory measures, and they must now only be used in situations when other antibiotics, that are commonly recommended for the infection, are inappropriate.