Antibiotics and their Side-Effects

Question 1

Quinolones (e.g. ciprofloxacin) cause?

Answer 1

Tendon rupture (rare)
- risk increased in elderly + when corticosteroids are used concurrently

Question 2

Co-amoxiclav side effects?

Answer 2

Derangement in LFTs with cholestatic picture, sometimes with jaundice
- usually resolves on withdrawal of the drug

Question 3

Macrolides (e.g erythromycin) side effects?

Answer 3

Diarrhoea

- macrolides increase GI motility

Question 4

Gentamicin side effects?

Answer 4

Significant renal damage

• serum level monitored during use
• increased levels suggest decreased urinary clearance due to nephrotoxicity and intervals between doses should be increased

Question 5

Nitrofurantoin use + side effect?

Answer 5

Only used for uncomplicated UTIs

- can cause pulmonary hypersensitivity leading to fibrosis