Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Induced by Ciprofloxacin: A Rare Adverse Effect

Despite their adverse effects, fluoroquinolones continue to be commonly prescribed antibiotics. Ciprofloxacin remains the safest with remarkably few adverse effects of all fluoroquinolones. Here, we present a rare case of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation induced by ciprofloxacin intake in a 72-year-ol...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Fatma Hammami, Makram Koubaa, Sahar Ben Kahla, Amal Chakroun, Khaoula Rekik, Fatma Smaoui, Mounir Ben Jemaa
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Research Center for Rational Use of Drugs (RCRUD) 2020-06-01
Series:Journal of Pharmaceutical Care
Subjects:
Online Access:https://jpc.tums.ac.ir/index.php/jpc/article/view/324
Description
Summary:Despite their adverse effects, fluoroquinolones continue to be commonly prescribed antibiotics. Ciprofloxacin remains the safest with remarkably few adverse effects of all fluoroquinolones. Here, we present a rare case of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation induced by ciprofloxacin intake in a 72-year-old woman. She was treated with ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone for urinary tract infection caused by Klebsiella pneumonia. On the fifth day of ciprofloxacin intake, she suddenly complained of heart palpitations and epigastric pain. An electrocardiogram revealed supraventricular tachycardia type atrial fibrillation at 130 beats per minute. No QT interval prolongation was noted. Ciprofloxacin was stopped as it was the most incriminated to induce arrhythmia. A control electrocardiogram showed normal sinus rhythm. Although rare, early detection of atrial fibrillation induced by ciprofloxacin may decrease the severity of complications and prevent death.
ISSN:2322-4630
2322-4509