The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a statement on May 12, 2016, advising doctors to stop prescribing fluoroquinolone antibiotics for certain infections that can be treated with less harmful medications. According to an FDA review, fluoroquinolones that are taken in tablet, capsule, or injection form can cause permanent and disabling damage to patients’ muscles, tendons, nerves, joints, and central nervous systems. Fluoroquinolones currently used include the following:

The FDA approves a medication for a particular use only when the benefits of using it for that purpose outweigh the risks involved. While fluoroquinolones may be required to treat certain types of severe infections, they have also been routinely prescribed to patients with relatively mild infections that could have been treated with safer medications. For this reason, the FDA has determined that fluoroquinolones should no longer be prescribed to patients suffering from sinusitis, bronchitis, or uncomplicated urinary tract infections that can be resolved with other treatments. Changes will be made to the drug labels and medication guides for these medications to reflect this updated safety information.

The FDA also advises patients who are taking a fluoroquinolone antibiotic to contact their doctors if they experience symptoms such as joint, muscle, or tendon pain; prickling or tingling sensations (pins and needles); hallucinations; or confusion. If you are taking any of the medications listed above, please call your doctor about any concerns you may have.

When someone has been harmed by using a dangerous drug, the company that produces the drug may be legally responsible for the patient’s injuries. If you have taken a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, including one of those listed above, and have been injured as a result, Feldman & Pinto’s experienced personal injury attorneys can help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation.