Pefloxacin - Social and Economic Impact

Social and Economic Impact

Any number of adverse drug reaction forums related to pefloxacin, as well as the fluoroquinolone class, may be found on the Internet. The various manufacturers and the members of the medical community’s reaction to these forums have been one of disbelief and denial. Claiming that “Some of the personal stories {of these members} on the Internet are truly wacky...”

Increased hospitalizations attributed to adverse drug reactions alone account for billions of dollars each year within the US healthcare system. Severe reactions do occur with the fluoroquinolone class and can add significantly to the cost of care. Antibacterial adverse effects account for nearly 25% of all adverse drug reactions amongst hospitalized patients. “Indirect costs as a result of reduced quality of life or loss of productivity are certainly not reflected in the acquisition costs of antimicrobials.”

• Economic impact: adverse reactions:

The adverse drug reaction profile of levofloxacin and other fluoroquinolone drugs has spawned a grass root movement of those so affected to lobby for Black Box Warnings and Dear Doctor Letters as well as the petitioning of the FDA for the removal of some fluoroquinolone drugs from clinical practice.

A number of class action lawsuits as well as malpractice litigation has been spawned by this unacceptable safety profile. The various manufacturers have countered these allegations stating that they believe that these drugs are both safe and effective antibiotics, well tolerated with a minimum of side effects, such reactions are “rare” (contrary to the literature) and the benefits of such therapy outweigh the perceived risks.