Levaquin causes painful tendon tears for many unsuspecting users
Levaquin, a type of fluoroquinolone, is a broad spectrum antibiotic that is available only by prescription. Levaquin is used to treat infections such as pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, and sinus/urinary tract infections. In general, fluoroquinolones such as Levaquin are well tolerated, with most side effects being mild to moderate. However, one serious side effect that is more common with fluoroquinolones, such as Levaquin, than with other antibiotic drug classes is tendon toxicity that may result in tendon ruptures.
The risk of tendon ruptures has been known for over a decade; however, manufacturers of Levaquin have failed to provide adequate warnings to doctors and consumers. As a result insufficient warnings, users have experienced tendon ruptures because they are not aware that they should be concerned about development of tendon pain or inflammation.
On July 8, 2008, the FDA ordered the manufacturer of Levaquin to upgrade its warning of tendon rupture to a Black Box warning. A Black Box warning is the strongest warning available for prescription drugs. The FDA also required that a guidebook be provided to patients warning about the possible side effects.
Tendon problems may occur within a few days of taking the antibiotic or several months after the course of therapy is finished. What's more, these ruptures may occur while doing low impact daily activities such as walking.
Tendon ruptures are a serious and painful injury which can require prolonged physical therapy, weeks of casting and reconstructive surgery. Many people suffering from these ruptures are no longer able to work or do the activities that they love due to limited mobility.
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