Pros and cons of the use of fluoroquinolone antibiotics in patients with kidney disease.

This document provides a summary of four population-based studies that examine the association between fluoroquinolone antibiotics and adverse outcomes in patients with kidney disease. The studies found that fluoroquinolone use, especially at higher doses, was linked to an increased risk of sudden cardiac death in patients receiving in-center hemodialysis. The authors emphasize the importance of safe prescribing practices and recommend considering alternative drugs and closely monitoring patients for signs of toxicity when prescribing fluoroquinolones to patients with renal impairment. They also suggest that regulatory agencies should strengthen warning labels and educate prescribers and patients about the risks associated with fluoroquinolone use. [Extracted from the article]