Drugs and Vaccines to Avoid With Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare disorder of the immune system. MG affects how some muscles and nerves communicate. Many people living with MG experience muscle weakness.1,2
Certain types of prescription and over-the-counter drugs can disrupt signals between nerves and muscles. These drugs may make muscle weakness worse for people with MG. Other drugs have been linked with worsening MG, but the reasons why are not understood.2,3
Talk to your doctor to learn about risk
Although problems have been documented for people with MG taking these drugs, every person is unique. Talk to your doctor about which drugs you may want to avoid with MG. If your doctor recommends you use a drug listed below, talk to them about the risks and your alternatives. Before starting any new medicine, talk to your doctor.2-4
Boxed warnings (do not use)
These drugs have a boxed warning, the strictest warning from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That means the FDA recommends people with MG not use them at all. If you must use them, use extreme caution:2-6
- Fluoroquinolones: a class of antibiotics including ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and moxifloxacin
- Telithromycin: another antibiotic
Generally avoid
The FDA and many doctors recommend that people with MG not use the following drugs:2-6
Drugs for abnormal heart rhythms
Drugs like quinidine, procainamide, and disopyramide treat irregular heart rhythms. They may increase weakness or worsen MG.
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