Fluoroquinolones and Aortic Diseases: Is There a Connection

The authors review the growing suspicion that fluoroquinolone antibiotic (FQ) use may be related to the occurrence of thoracic aortic aneurysms and acute aortic dissection. The proposed mechanism is through an increase in matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which degrade collagen, a precursor to aortic injury. At least one international agency has recommended modifying the product package insert to warn users of this risk.