Fluoroquinolones for the Treatment of Intra-Abdominal Infections: A Review of Clinical Effectiveness, Cost-Effectiveness, and Guidelines

Details

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Project Line:
Health Technology Review
Project Sub Line:
Summary with Critical Appraisal
Project Number:
RC1094-000

Question

  1. What is the clinical effectiveness of fluoroquinolones for the treatment of intra-abdominal infections?
  2. What is the cost-effectiveness of fluoroquinolones for the treatment of intra-abdominal infections?
  3. What are the evidence-based guidelines regarding the use of fluoroquinolones for the treatment of intra-abdominal infections?

Key Message

Evidence from one systematic review with meta-analysis, one meta-analysis without systematic review, and two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggested that fluoroquinolones did not differ from comparators with respect to effectiveness and safety for the treatment of adults with intra-abdominal infections. One pilot RCT also suggested similar effectiveness and safety for use in children, however statistical significance was not calculated. No evidence for the cost-effectiveness of fluoroquinolones for the treatment of intra-abdominal infections was identified. Two evidence-based guidelines were identified that provide recommendations regarding the use of fluoroquinolones for the treatment of intra-abdominal infections. Based on weak- to high-quality evidence, the guidelines provide weak- to strong-recommendations for the use of fluoroquinolones in adults and children under particular conditions and with some exceptions.