FDA advisers say Ketek too risky

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According to a December 16 report, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisers recommended that Ketek, an antibiotic manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis, should no longer be marketed for bronchitis or sinusitis due to the risks involved in using the drug.

Patients using Ketek have reported liver damage, liver failure, blurred vision, loss of consciousness and other side effects. IMS Health reports that last year about 3.35 million Ketek prescriptions were filled, bringing Sanofi-Aventis about $193 million.

Experts seem to think that this drug should not be widely used because the risks outweigh the benefits. Some say it's still okay for pneumonia.

If you or someone you know has suffered from a defective drug, it may be in your best interest to contact an attorney.