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Fluoroquinolone tendinopathy — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardAdverse Drug Reactions and Drug SafetyFluoroquinolone tendinopathyGPhC CRA

A patient reports tendon pain and swelling two days after starting ciprofloxacin for prostatitis. He is 69, takes prednisolone 10mg daily for COPD and has CKD stage 3. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: D — Advise stopping ciprofloxacin and contacting the prescriber urgently for alternative treatment.

Fluoroquinolones can cause tendinopathy and tendon rupture, with higher risk in older people, corticosteroid use and renal impairment. New tendon pain requires prompt cessation advice and prescriber contact unless a clinician directs otherwise. Exercise or NSAID masking could increase harm.

Reference: MHRA Drug Safety Update; BNF