FQs
In the acute phase, the main symptom of tendinitis is pain when moving the affected joint or palpating the tendon.
In later phase, continuous pain and tendon thickening or nodularity may be present.
The Achilles tendon is involved in most cases, but other joints may be affected (shoulder, hand, etc.).
Intense physical activities are not recommended during a treatment with a FQ.
Tendinitis is more common in older patients, patients with renal insufficiency or taking corticosteroids.
Tendon rupture is a complication of tendinitis. Signs and symptoms include a snap or pop sound at the time of rupture, bruising, inability to move the joint and a lack of continuity of the tendon on palpation.
Early detection of tendinitis, symptomatic treatment, and discontinuation of FQ can prevent tendon rupture. If the TB treatment is likely to fail without the FQ, try to continue the FQ. Inform the patient that tendon rupture may occur, but that FQ is essential to prevent TB treatment failure.
Symptomatic treatment:
- Rest the joint involved.
- Pain management:
- application of ice, and
- ibuprofen PO:
Adult: 400 to 600 mg every 4 to 6 hours when required, max. 2400 mg daily