Canada Warns Antibiotic Avelox May Be Linked to Liver Problems

By Jim Greene

Published on April 17, 2010

Health Canada, the Canadian federal government health agency, warned last month that the antibiotic Avelox® (moxifloxacin) may be linked to "rare but potentially life-threatening ... liver injury, including liver failure." The agency has ordered Avelox® maker Bayer Healthcare to further strengthen its product warnings to emphasize the potential danger.

Avelox® is a synthetic antibacterial in the fluoroquinolone family, and is used to treat a wide range of infections, especially those of the respiratory system. The drug is produced as a tablet and as an injectable. Bayer markets moxifloxacin worldwide; other brand names are Avalox and Avelon.

Canadian, European Agencies Ordered Previous Warnings

Health Canada and European health agencies have previously ordered Bayer to strengthen its warnings about Avelox® and liver damage. Last month's Health Canada action was meant to further increase awareness by the Canadian public.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not issued any warning linking Avelox® with liver damage, but has warned that the medication may be linked to tendonitis and tendon ruptures, especially of the Achilles tendon.

Canadian Safety Review follows European Action

According to a Health Canada press release, its new warning and order for further action on the part of Bayer are the result of a safety review of Avelox®, following a similar review by the European Medicines Agency. The release said symptoms of liver problem may include abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin and eye, dark urine, pale-colored stools, severe itching, and loss of appetite. Health Canada advised patients experiencing any of the symptoms to stop taking Avelox® and contact a health professional immediately.

If you or someone you know has suffered liver damage or liver failure after taking Avelox® or any other moxifloxacin antibacterial medication, contact a personal injury attorney. You may be eligible for financial compensation to help you deal with the consequences of Avelox® side effects, including help with medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and suffering.

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