Mounting Evidence of Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics Role in the Genesis of Cervical Artery Dissection

Written by: James Demetrious, DC, DABCO

Diplomate, American Board of Chiropractic Orthopedists
Diplomate, International Academy of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine

The Demetrious FQ-CAD Hypothesis

In 2018, I was the first to ever assert the role and causality of fluoroquinolones in the genesis of CeAD.

New Research Affirms the FQ-CAD Relationship

My novel hypothesis has been subsequently confirmed by independent researchers:

— 2019 – Del Zotto and Pezzini

— 2021 – Harada et al.

— 2023 – Wang et al.

Wang et al. report:

“Fluoroquinolones (FQ), commonly prescribed antibiotics, may trigger aortic and carotid dissections.”

Further Confirmation Pending?

Recently, Trager et al. published an important article about spontaneous cervical artery dissection.

Trager et al. wrote,

“While beyond the scope of the current study, further research may be needed to clarify whether associations between upper respiratory infections and sCeAD directly result from the infections or are an adverse sequela of the medications used to treat the infections.”

We Agree

Fluoroquinolones represent an iatrogenic cause of cervical artery dissection that requires further investigation and careful consideration.

PostGradDC offers advanced post-graduate chiropractic continuing education. Our founder, Dr. James Demetrious, is an internationally distinguished board-certified chiropractic orthopedist, educator, author, and editor. Register for coursework at PostGradDC.com.