The FDA says quinolones are associated with disabling and potentially permanent side effects and recommends that providers limit their use in patients with less serious bacterial infections.

Limit their use for acute bacterial sinusitis, acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis and uncomplicated urinary tract infections

In 2016, the FDA released a warning regarding the serious side effects of fluoroquinolones which adversely impact muscles, tendons, joints, nerves and the CNS. The risks of these side effects generally outweigh the benefits for the treatment of uncomplicated UTIs, sinusitis, and bronchitis.

These side effects are serious and can be disabling and permanent.

It’s best to reserve fluoroquinolones for cases where there is no other therapeutic option.

Further Reading / Reference

https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm513183.htm

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