Peripheral neuropathy associated with fluoroquinolones.
OBJECTIVE
To survey cases of fluoroquinolone-associated adverse events that included peripheral nervous system (PNS) symptoms posted on Internet Web sites.


METHODS
Cases were obtained with the assistance of members of Web sites formed by people sustaining fluoroquinolone-related events. Information obtained met the standards of MedWatch, and each reported case was assessed using the Naranjo probability scale.


RESULTS
In contrast to previous reports suggesting that fluoroquinolone-associated PNS events are mild and short-term, 36 of the 45 cases reported severe events that typically involved multiple organ systems. Although many newer cases are still evolving, symptoms had lasted more than three months in 71% of cases and more than one year in 58%. Onset of adverse events was usually rapid, with 15 (33%) events beginning within 24 hours of initiating treatment, 26 (58%) within 72 hours, and 38 (84%) within one week. Sixty courses of fluoroquinolones were prescribed: levofloxacin (n = 33 cases), ciprofloxacin (n = 11), ofloxacin (n = 6), lomefloxacin (n = 1), trovafloxacin (n = 1); in eight cases the same antibiotic was prescribed twice.


CONCLUSIONS
These cases suggest a possible association between fluoroquinolone antibiotics and severe, long-term adverse effects involving the PNS as well as other organ systems. The severity of these cases may reflect a different population than typically reported to drug companies or MedWatch, which often originate from healthcare providers. In contrast, Internet Web sites may provide a forum for patients experiencing adverse effects that have not resolved promptly. Further study is warranted. Meanwhile the occurrence of PNS symptoms during fluoroquinolone therapy should prompt immediate discontinuation of the agent used.
Cohen
J S
JS
Departments of Family and Preventive Medicine, and Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA. jacohen@ucsd.edu
D000328:Adult; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002648:Child; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D024841:Fluoroquinolones; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000145:classification / Q000503:physiopathology; D012720:Severity of Illness Index
D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D024841:Fluoroquinolones