Ketek is the brand name for the drug Telithromycin. (Hence, it is commonly referred to as Ketek Telithromycin) Originally developed in France, this drug has been employed in the United States as an antibiotic designed to heal respiratory infections. These infections may be the result of sinus problems, pneumonia and bronchitis. These are all serious conditions which can affect the respiratory track in a significant way. Therefore, the need for an effective antibiotic is paramount. Due to its initial promise, Ketek Telithromycin became one of the more frequently prescribed antibiotics. Soon after, however, it was soon discovered that Ketek came with a host of previously unknown problems.

There are a number of reasons why Ketek Telithromycin would be employed to combat a respiratory infection. Obviously, the main reason would be to reduce the infection and keeping it from spreading. An infection that is not properly treated runs the potential of becoming even worse. As such, the employment of an antibiotic is necessary for curtailing the worsening of the condition. Unfortunately, taking Ketek Telithromycin can bring with it a number of unfortunate problems as well.

For example, Ketek Telithromycin has been known to cause heart irregularities, liver damage, hepatitis and a host of other problems. (This is why the drug now comes with a warning label on its cover) Some may wonder why the drug has not been pulled from the market completely due to these problems. The main reason is that not everyone who takes this antibiotic has reported serious reactions. The instances of adverse side effects have been common enough, however, that the FDA was forced to acknowledge the severity of the risk associated with taking this antibiotic. In short, it remains a potentially dangerous antibiotic.

While a number of physicians have discontinued prescribing this antibiotic, there are still many who do. This does not mean that the product is safe or that following the warning labels will guarantee protection any negative side effects. Because of this it is critical to discuss any potential side effects with a physician prior to use. Perhaps even asking for an alternate medication would be worth exploring as well.