Moxifloxacin-induced tinnitus in an older adult

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Infectious Diseases
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum antibiotics with increasing bacterial resistance and serious adverse effects.
• The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises limiting fluoroquinolone use to specific infections due to safety concerns.

Observation:

• A case report details an older adult experiencing tinnitus after a 5-day course of oral moxifloxacin.
• The patient received moxifloxacin for acute diverticulitis due to allergies to alternative antibiotics.

Findings:

• Moxifloxacin, a fluoroquinolone, was associated with the development of tinnitus.
• This represents a rare but serious adverse event potentially linked to fluoroquinolone therapy.

Implications:

• Clinicians should be aware of the ototoxic potential of fluoroquinolones, including moxifloxacin.
• Further investigation into rare adverse effects like tinnitus is warranted to ensure patient safety with fluoroquinolone use.