Fluoroquinolones are a type of antibiotic commonly used for the treatment of serious bacterial infections. The infections they are used to treat are normally ones where health concerns are at risk and in some cases, potentially life-threatening. While they can be a necessary form of treatment, they also come with some side effects. These side effects are generally rare and mild when they do appear. However, some patients can experience more serious ones. When serious side effects are experienced, this is known as fluoroquinolone toxicity within the medical field, and appropriate treatment will be required.
Fluoroquinolone Toxicity
Mild side effects shouldn’t require treatment and should pass over time. Some of these include stomach pain and discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Although unpleasant, they aren’t serious, and the concern for the person’s health should not appear to be at risk. On the other hand, treatment should be sought if any of the following serious side effects and symptoms are experienced:
- Muscle pain and weakness
- Difficulty walking
- Adrenal fatigue
- Depression
- Memory loss
- Sleep problems
- Joint pain
- Vision or hearing loss
While most symptoms are likely to be somatic, in certain cases, non-somatic symptoms can also result. These may include seizures, skin disease, Tourette’s syndrome, and delirium.
The serious side effects from taking fluoroquinolone can last long-term, and sometimes even be permanent and cause disability. Those who are over 60 years old tend to be more prone to joint pain issues, and those suffering from impaired kidney function may be more susceptible to the damaging effects of fluoroquinolone toxicity.
How to Treat Fluoroquinolone Toxicity
A report presented in the Archives of Medical Science highlights the use of glutathione as a beneficial antioxidant treatment measure for fluoroquinolone toxicity. The reason why it appears to help is due to its effects on recovery from oxidative damage encountered as a result of taking fluoroquinolones. Other antioxidant treatments that are sometimes used include ascorbic acid (a synthetic form of Vitamin C), alpha lipoic acid, and magnesium sulfate, which one can get in the form of Epsom bath salts as a home remedy.
Final Words
While fluoroquinolone can be necessary for treatment in some cases of serious infection, it should be used with caution. Some patients can suffer severe side effects as a result of taking them. However, there are treatment methods for anyone who does become affected by fluoroquinolone toxicity. One effective method is the use of antioxidant treatment.