Fluoroquinolone antibiotics: must now only be prescribed when other commonly recommended antibiotics are inappropriate
The UK indications for systemic fluoroquinolones (by mouth, injection, inhalation) have been updated following a review into the effectiveness of previous measures to reduce the risk of disabling and potentially long-term or irreversible adverse reactions.
Source:
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency
SPS commentary:
Previous regulations stated that fluoroquinolones should not be prescribed for non-severe or self-limiting infections, or for mild to moderate infections (e.g. acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) unless other antibiotics that are commonly recommended for these infections are considered inappropriate. There have however been Yellow Card reports from patients who have experienced long-lasting or disabling reactions following use of fluoroquinolones, in some cases prescribed for mild to moderate or self-limiting infections, or non-bacterial conditions. Serious adverse reactions to fluoroquinolone antibiotics include tendinitis or tendon rupture, muscle pain, muscle weakness, joint pain, joint swelling, peripheral neuropathy and central nervous system effects.