Why is Levaquin (levofloxacin) prescribed?
Levaquin is an antibiotic prescribed for the treatment of lung, sinus, skin, prostate, and urinary tract infections caused by certain bacteria. Levaquin is not prescribed for the treatment of viral infections such as a cold or the flu.
What are the complications associated with taking Levaquin?
On July 8, 2008, the FDA requested labeling for Levaquin and other quinolone antibiotics to include a “Boxed Warning,” alerting doctors and patients of the increased risk of developing tendinitis and tendon rupture associated with systemic use of these antibiotics. A “Boxed Warning” is the strongest warning that the FDA can require a prescription drug to carry in its labeling.
Quinolone antibiotics include: ciprofloxacin (Cipro, Cipro XR, Proquin XR), gemifloxacin (Factive), levofloxacin (Levaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), norfloxacin (Noroxin), and ofloxacin (Floxin).
The FDA reports that the risk of these tendon injuries is further increased in older patients (usually over 60 years of age), in patients taking corticosteroid drugs, and in patients with kidney, heart, or lung transplants.
Quinolone associated tendinitis and tendon rupture most frequently involve the Achilles tendon, however, tendinitis and tendon rupture of the rotator cuff (shoulder), hand, wrist, biceps and the thumb have also been reported. Tendon rupture may require surgical repair.
According to the FDA, tendon rupture can occur during or after the completion of quinolone therapy, and injury occurring up to several months after completion of therapy has been reported.
Symptoms of tendon rupture may include:
- pain, swelling or inflammation in a tendon area
- a snap or pop in a tendon area
- bruising right after an injury in a tendon area
- inability to move the affected area or bear weight
What should I do if I have experienced a tendon injury do to Levaquin therapy?
The FDA advises patients to immediately contact their doctor or health care professional if they experience symptoms associated with Levaquin or quinolone tendon injury. Consumers are also encouraged to report suspected Levaquin or quinolone antibiotic side effects or product quality problems to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program at MedWatch.
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