Levaquin® Prescription
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Levaquin® is a prescription drug used to treat severe bacterial infections. Levaquin® tablets are often prescribed for lung infections such as chronic bronchitis and pneumonia, as well as for bacterial infections of the skin, bladder, kidneys and prostate. Since Levaquin® is a synthetic chemotherapeutic agent, it is usually prescribed only for the most severe or life threatening infections- for example, treating people who have been exposed to anthrax.
Levaquin® Dosage
A typical Levaquin® dose is one 250 or 500 mg Levaquin® tablet, administered orally every 24 hours. Dosage will vary according to a variety of factors, including drug interaction, severity of infection, patient age, and other considerations. Levaquin® is also sold as a “Leva-Pak,” a blister-sealed pack of five Levaquin® tablets.
Side Effects of Levaquin®
In the past several years, Levaquin® has been linked to hundreds of cases of tendon damage and tendon rupture in patients. Extensive surgeries and lengthy rehabilitation programs are often necessary to repair a ruptured or injured tendon. Specific injuries can include ruptures of the Achilles’ tendon, the rotator cuff (shoulder), and the tendons that attach to the quadriceps to support the knee joint.
According to manufacturer indications, Levaquin® has also been known to cause the following side effects:
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight)
- Hepatotoxicity (liver damage)
- Central nervous system disorders
Symptoms of Levaquin® Side Effects
Tendon ruptures and other tendon injuries can occur while taking Levaquin® or after treatment has been completed. Some of the most common symptoms of a tendon rupture or injury include:
- Hearing or feeling a “pop” in a joint
- Inability to move or use a joint
- Pain, bruising, or swelling at the injury site
- Severe pain when you “put weight” on a knee or ankle
- Decreased strength in muscles surrounding the joint
Some patients also experience severe allergic reactions shortly after taking their first Levaquin® dose. Signs of an allergic reaction to Levaquin® can include:
- Skin rash, hives, or any other skin reaction
- Rapid heartbeat
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
How a Defective Drug Attorney Can Help
Patients that have experienced injuries caused by Levaquin® may be eligible to recover compensation for physical, emotional and financial losses. Contact our Levaquin® attorney today to consult with an experienced attorney about pursuing your legal claim.
