Oral fluoroquinolones are contraindicated in which patient group?

• A. Under 18 years old
• B. Elderly
• C. Pregnant women
• D. People with kidney disease

Answer: (A)

The key idea is safety in developing cartilage and tendons. Fluoroquinolones can interfere with cartilage development and have a documented risk of tendinopathy and tendon rupture, especially in weight-bearing joints. Because children's bones and joints are still growing, these drugs pose a potential for irreversible joint and cartilage damage, making them contraindicated in anyone under 18.

In contrast, adults—while they still have potential tendon and other side effects and require caution in the elderly—do not have the same absolute developmental risk. Pregnancy and kidney disease require careful consideration and dose adjustments, but they are not the same universal contraindication as being under 18.