US FDA issues new safety warning for certain antibiotics

Following a review of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, the US Food and Drug Administration has issued a statement regarding an association with a rare but serious side effect.

The agency says use of the antibiotic is linked with ruptures or tears in the aorta which can lead to dangerous bleeding and death. They can occur with fluoroquinolones for systemic use given by mouth or through an injection.

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics, which are approved to treat certain bacterial infections, have been used for decades. They work by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria.