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Ornidazole-induced ataxia in an Indian woman: A case report
Kango Gopal Gopinath1, Benny Paul Wilson1, Surekha Viggeswarpu1
1Department of Geriatric Medicine, Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, India.
Abstract:
The nitroimidazole group of antibiotics like metronidazole have been reported to cause cerebellar ataxia as a rare side effect. Ornidazole, the newest derivative of this class, has a long half life and is very rarely known to cause cerebellar ataxia. Here, we report a 61-year-old patient who developed ataxia due to ornidazole to highlight an unusual adverse event that improved rapidly after discontinuation of the offending drug.
Insights
Ornidazole, a nitroimidazole antibiotic, can rarely cause cerebellar ataxia. This report details a case where a patient recovered quickly after stopping ornidazole, highlighting this unusual adverse drug reaction.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Nitroimidazole antibiotics, including metronidazole, are known for rare neurological side effects.
- Ornidazole, a newer derivative, possesses a long half-life and is infrequently associated with cerebellar ataxia.
Observation:
- A 61-year-old patient presented with symptoms of cerebellar ataxia.
- The patient's symptoms emerged following ornidazole administration.
Findings:
- The patient's ataxia was determined to be an adverse event linked to ornidazole.
- Discontinuation of ornidazole led to a rapid improvement in the patient's neurological symptoms.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for ornidazole to induce cerebellar ataxia, even if rare.
- Clinicians should consider ornidazole-induced ataxia in patients presenting with relevant neurological deficits.
- Prompt drug withdrawal is crucial for managing this adverse drug reaction.
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