Tequin FAQs

Q: What is Tequin?

A: Tequin (gatifloxacin) is an antibiotic used to treat adults with lung, sinus, or urinary tract infections, as well as certain sexually transmitted diseases caused by germs called bacteria. Tequin is made by Bristol-Myers Squibb Company and was approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 1999.

Q: Has there been any recent news about Tequin?

A: In March 2006, the FDA announced that Bristol-Myers Squibb Company revised the labeling on Tequin because it caused some people to have serious blood sugar problems (low blood sugar or high blood sugar).

Q: Who should not take Tequin?

A: You should not take Tequin if you are allergic to it or any "quinolones." Ask your doctor if any medicines you currently take are quinolones.

You should not take Tequin if you or any of your family members have a rare heart condition called congenital prolongation of the QT interval, or if you have low blood potassium, take medicines for irregular heartbeat, or have diabetes or high blood sugar.

Q: What should I tell my healthcare professional before he or she prescribes Tequin?

A: Before you start taking Tequin, tell your healthcare professional if you are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, are nursing, have diabetes, have heart problems, have or had liver problems, have kidney problems, or take any other prescription or non-prescription medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.

Q: Are there any serious health risks associated with Tequin?

A: You should stop taking Tequin and call your doctor immediately if you experience any serious blood sugar changes, severe allergic reactions, seizures, dizziness, confusion, tremors, hallucinations, depression, suicidal thoughts, or pain, inflammation or rupture of a tendon.

Q: Are there any side effects associated with Tequin?

A: Common side effects associated with Tequin use include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and abnormal blood sugar levels.

Q: What else should I know about taking Tequin?

A: When taking Tequin, it is recommended that you do not drive or operate dangerous machines until you know how Tequin affects you. Also, when taking Tequin, you should avoid long exposure to sunlight, since Tequin makes skin more sensitive. Long exposure to sunlight may cause severe sunburn. Finally, Tequin for oral suspension contains phenylalanine. This is important to know if you have a condition called Phenylketonuria.

Q: What should I do if I think I have been injured as a result of taking Tequin?

A: If you or a loved one have experienced any dangerous symptoms or unusual medical conditions while taking Tequin, you should first contact your doctor or other healthcare professional. It's also in your best interests to consult with a product liability attorney to learn more about obtaining compensation for your injuries. The manufacturers of pharmaceutical drugs can be held liable for any injuries caused by inadequate drug warnings or defects in the medications themselves.