Abstract 13788: Association Between Floroquinolones and Cardiovascular Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The administration of Fluoroquinolones (FQ) has raised concerns regarding potential adverse cardiovascular outcomes, including severe arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and even mortality. Nevertheless, a comprehensive evaluation of these outcomes and their real impact on patients receiving these antibiotics is lacking. Objective: We aim to evaluate the association between fluoroquinolones and cardiovascular outcomes.Methods: We systematically searched all electronic databases from inception until 27th May 2023. Odds ratios (OR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The final analysis included a total of 11 studies, encompassing a sample size of 6,579,936 individuals (FQ: 2,005,466 and control: 4,574,470). The pooled analysis shows that the FQ group was associated with significantly higher risk arrhythmia (OR: 1.87 (95% CI: 1.22, 2.87), P<0.01, cardiovascular mortality (OR: 1.72 (95% CI: 1.38, 2.14), P<0.0001), and myocardial infarction (OR: 1.33 (95% CI: 1.26, 1.39), P<0.0001). Conclusion: Fluoroquinolones exhibit a significant cardiotoxic effect, contributing to the development of arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and even mortality. Consequently, caution must be exercised when prescribing this class of antibiotics, with regular follow-up recommended to monitor potential cardiovascular complications.