Abstract

* The FDA has revised the boxed warning for fluoroquinolone antibiotics to highlight the possibility that a cluster of adverse effects in the musculoskeletal system, peripheral nervous system, and/or central nervous system may occur suddenly during or after drug therapy. These adverse effects may produce permanent disability. * A high risk of these severe adverse effects exists when fluoroquinolones are used to treat acute sinusitis, acute bronchitis, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections; therefore, fluoroquinolones should not be used to treat these infections unless there are no alternative treatment options.