FDA warns of potential side effects of powerful antibiotics

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is ratcheting up its warning about the potential side effects of a type of commonly-prescribed powerful antibiotic often known by the brand name Cipro.

The FDA says the potential side effects of fluoroquinolone anti-bacterial drugs often outweigh their benefits when it comes to treating people with bronchitis or basic sinus or urinary tract infections. As a result, the FDA says doctors should use these types of drugs only if they have no alternatives.

Potential serious and disabling side effects related to the drugs can include tendons, muscles and joint pain, a "pins and needles" tingling sensation, confusion and hallucinations.

The FDA issued previous warnings about the drugs in 2008 and 2013, but didn't go so far as to advise doctors to restrict their use.

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