WASHINGTON, D.C. — At least one North Carolina patient testified Thursday in front of the Food and Drug Administration about growing concerns involving a popular antibiotic.
The antibiotics are called fluoroquinolones. The medicine is also known by brand names Cipro and Levaquin.
Some patients and doctors said they come with big risks and side effects including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease and even death.
Michael Kaferly, who lives near Asheville, said in 2008 that he had a cough and took Levaquin.
He said that within weeks, he had trouble walking. He said he lost 70 pounds, lost circulation in his feel and needs certain toes amputated.
Kaferly said he put off the surgery to testify before the FDA panels Thursday.
"I want to be here today for all those that cannot speak, for my son and for his entire generation, to implore the FDA to rethink the way that we label and monitor these toxic, powerful biological weapons that we call cures," he said.
Drug companies defended the antibiotics. Bayer, which makes Cipro, said the drugs can be effective when used on the right patient.
In April, Action 9 introduced a woman who now has to walk with a cane.
Channel 9 spoke with one doctor who said the drugs can be effective, so he doesn't want them banned, but he does want the FDA to do more to warn about possible side effects.
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