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Evidence summaries

Fluoroquinolones and the Risk of Achilles Tendon Disorders

Fluoroquinolones may increase the risk of Achilles tendon disorders in people aged 60 and over. Concomitant use of corticosteroids may increase the risk. Level of evidence: "C"

A case control study 1 assessed the risk of Achilles tendinitis and Achilles tendon rupture in users of fluoroquinolones. The cases were 46 776 users of fluoroquinolones. Current exposure to fluoroquinolones increased the risk of Achilles tendon disorders. The adverse effects were rare; the overall excess risk was 3.2 cases per 1 000 patient years. The effects seemed to be restricted to people aged 60 and over. Concomitant use of corticosteroids increased the risk substantially.

    References

    • van der Linden PD, Sturkenboom MC, Herings RM, Leufkens HG, Stricker BH. Fluoroquinolones and risk of Achilles tendon disorders: case-control study. BMJ 2002 Jun 1;324(7349):1306-7. [PubMed]

Primary/Secondary Keywords