The antibiotic Tequin is coming off the market. Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. confirmed that it plans to stop making and selling Tequin. Tequin is prescribed for chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, urinary tract and other infections. The drug generated approximately $100 million in sales in the U.S.
The drug was first sold in 1999. Tequin is associated with both high- and low-blood sugar in patients. Two months ago the FDA required increased warnings on Tequin's label. Tequin's maker warnsthat it should not be used by diabetics, the elderly, and those with kidney disease. You can read the Medwatch posting on the FDA site by going here. The posting states:
Posted 02/16/2006] BMS notified FDA and healthcare professionals about proposed changes to the prescribing information for Tequin, including an updating of the existing WARNING on hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), and a CONTRAINDICATION for use in diabetic patients. The changes also include information identifying other risk factors for developing low blood sugar and high blood sugar, including advanced age, renal insufficiency, and concomitant glucose-altering medications while taking Tequin. The proposed changes are highlighted in the following "Dear Healthcare Provider" letter issued by BMS. Specific wording of these additions and revisions to the labeling is pending FDA review and approval.
Sources include: AP, Yahoo!, Reuters.
