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FDA Issues Stronger Warning on Antibiotics to Treat Simple UTIs

FDA Issues Stronger Warning on Antibiotics to Treat Simple UTIs

By: Urology Care Foundation | Posted on: 29 Jul 2016


FDA Issues Stronger Warning on Antibiotics to Treat Simple UTIs

Earlier this week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a stronger warning about the dangers of treating uncomplicated or ‘simple' urinary tract infections (UTIs) with a type of antibiotic drug called fluoroquinolones.

The FDA said using fluoroquinolones to treat ‘simple UTIs' could have serious side effects on tendons, muscles, joints, nerves and the central nervous system. When it comes to treating a ‘simple UTI,' fluoroquinolones should only be used for those with no other treatment option.

Fluoroquinolones include levofloxacin (as known as Levaquin), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), ciprofloxacin extended-release tablets, moxifloxacin (Avelox), ofloxacin and gemifloxacin (Factive).

This is the strongest warning the FDA has issued on fluoroquinolones. A previous warning was issued in May, 2016 regarding its use to treat certain bacterial infections.

Most UTIs are looked at as uncomplicated or ‘simple' - if the UTI is complicated, then a longer course of antibiotic treatment is given and a hospital stay or visit may be needed. Many women have ‘simple UTIs', while the UTIs in men and children should be thought of as complicated.

Talk to your doctor if you are using fluoroquinolones. There may be other treatment options available. You can also read the FDA's News Release from July 26, 2016.


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