Levaquin, an antibiotic that can be given both orally and intravenously, treats pneumonia and bronchitis, as well as infections of the skin and tissues, sinuses, kidneys, bladder, and prostate. It can also be given to treat anthrax. Because of its effectiveness against a wide range of bacterial infections, Levaquin is used widely in hospitals and by outpatients. Its side effects range from mild to dangerous.
Severe Diarrhea
Levaquin has been known to cause severe diarrhea by allowing an overgrowth of a drug-resistant bacteria called Clostridium difficile, says the Merck Manual. Diarrhea may occur shortly after initiating Levaquin, or it may develop weeks after stopping treatment. Patients experience frequent watery diarrhea, sometimes with blood present, and they may develop severe dehydration. For people developing diarrhea during or after taking Levaquin, the Mayo Clinic recommends seeking medical attention and avoiding over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications because they may causing worsening symptoms.
Heart Arrhythmias
Although uncommon, Levaquin can cause a subtle change called a prolonged QT interval in heart rhythms. For most people this change would be insignificant, but in some cases it could be dangerous. For people who already have abnormal heart rhythms, take other drugs (such as amiodarone or sotalol) that cause a prolonged QT interval or have low levels of potassium in their blood, Levaquin could cause a dangerously irregular heart rhythm, one that can even lead to cardiac arrest.
Tendon Rupture
Levaquin has been associated with spontaneous rupture of the tendons, the cords that connects muscles to bones. The Achille's tendon at the back of the ankle is most frequently affected. The risk of rupture increases when patients are also taking medications called corticosteroids (such as prednisone or dexamethasone). Elderly patients and patients with kidney disease or rheumatoid arthritis are at increased risk for tendon rupture while taking Levaquin. People who have had an organ transplant are also considered high-risk for this side effect.
Low Blood Sugar
Diabetic patients who take insulin or anti-diabetic oral medications may experience episodes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) while taking Levaquin. The typical symptoms of hypoglycemia include anxiety, confusion, difficulty concentrating, headache, nausea, cold sweats and elevated heart rate. Hypoglycemia may cause patients to pass out. The Mayo Clinic recommends that diabetics monitor their blood sugar closely while taking Levaquin.
Sensory Changes
Levaquin may cause peripheral neuropathy, a condition which alters sensation in the arms, hands, legs and feet. Peripheral neuropathy typically causes numbness and tingling to the affected parts of the body. Some people experience pain, burning, weakness or extreme sensitivity to touch.
Photosensitivity
Levaquin can cause the skin to become highly susceptible to sunburns. Sunlight, sunlamps and tanning beds may all cause sunburns and rashes or swelling in patients taking Levaquin. The Mayo Clinic advises patients to use sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight.
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