FDA Warns Zithromax May Cause Fatal Heart Problems
By Anne Bucher
Azithromycin is a popular antibiotic manufactured by Pfizer Inc. under the brand name Zithromax. More than 40 million people are prescribed Zithromax each year to treat or prevent bacterial infections such as ear infections, pneumonia, bronchitis, strep throat and sinusitis. The antibiotic gained popularity due to the short amount of time it needs to be taken, which is only five days compared to the minimum of 10 days of many other antibiotics.
Studies have shown that Zithromax can cause serious side effects. In some cases, these side effects can be fatal. Some of the most serious complications the drug has been linked to are hearing loss, Stevens Johnson Syndrome, kidney disease, liver failure, hepatitis, seizures and pancreatitis. Now, new information from the FDA warns that Zithromax can cause serious heart problems in some users.
The FDA Warns about Zithromax Heart Risk
In 2012, the New England Journal of Medicine released a study that compared the risks of heart-related deaths in patients who were treated by antibacterial drugs, including amoxicillin, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin. The study compared patients who used these drugs to patients who did not receive antibacterial drugs. Compared to all other groups, individuals treated with a 5-day course of azithromycin (Z-Pak) had a higher rate of death from any cause, including cardiovascular issues.
On March 12, 2013, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning that the use of Zithromax can lead to a potentially fatal heart rhythm. Patients considered to be at increased risk for developing this condition generally have prior health issues, such as low potassium or magnesium levels, slower than average heart rate, or QT interval prolongation. Also at risk are patients who are currently using certain drugs to treat arrhythmia.
The FDA also warns that Zithromax can alter the heart’s electrical activity, potentially causing a fatal health condition. Patients with QT interval prolongation, a disorder of the hearth’s electrical system, or torsades de pointes, a rare rhythm abnormality, must be especially cautious about using Zithromax. The FDA stresses that health care professionals should strongly weigh the risks of using azithromycin to treat patients who are at risk of a cardiovascular condition.
Pfizer released a statement that they have updated the product packaging to include warnings about the risk of heart rhythm abnormality. The pharmaceutical company emphasized that the label change will not affect the majority of patients who use Zithromax.
Get a Free Zithromax Class Action Lawsuit Consultation
The number of Zithromax class action lawsuits has been increasing as patients fear the significant side effects associated with the drug. People who have suffered heart attacks, liver failure, Stevens Johnson Syndrome, and other serious health issues should speak with a Zithromax attorney to discuss their situation. An experienced drug injury lawyer can evaluate your symptoms and help you understand your legal rights. You may be able to obtain compensation for the Zithromax injuries that you suffered. Get a free legal consultation by visiting the Zithromax, Z-Pak, Azithromycin Class Action Lawsuit Settlement & Investigation page.
Updated March 29th, 2013
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