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Since the release of gatifloxacin in 1999, several reports have suggested that the antibiotic might affect glucose metabolism in humans. Additionally, animal studies have shown evidence that the drug could alter pancreatic islet cell function. In two nested case-control studies, investigators in Canada now have explored the association between broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy and hospital care for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia in adults >65 years old.
Using data from the Ontario health system from April 2002 through March 2004, the investigators identified patients who had required hospital care for hypoglycemia (n=788) or hyperglycemia (n=470) within 30 days of receiving outpatient treatment with a macrolide, a second-generation cephalospo…