Levaquin is a brand name of the generic drug levofloxacin. It is an antibiotic prescribed by a doctor for the treatment of bacterial infections of the skin, sinuses and urinary tract. Medline Plus adds that Levaquin may also be used to treat bronchitis and bacterial pneumonia. It is available in tablet or liquid form to be taken by mouth. Levaquin may also be given by injection through an intravenous solution in a medical setting. As with most medications, some side effects may occur (see References 1 and 3).
Allergic Reaction
Patients may experience an allergic reaction to Levaquin. Medline Plus explains that signs of an allergic reaction may include swelling of the lips, tongue and face, difficulty breathing, throat tightening, chest pain and hives. Patients may also develop a skin rash. The rash may be itchy, reddened and blister. In cases of an allergic reaction, Levaquin must be discontinued.
Tendinitits or Tendon Rupture
RXList.com reports that Levaquin use is associated with an increased risk for tendinitis or tendon rupture in all ages of patients being treated. Tendons are the connective tissues that connect muscle to bone. Tendinitis is inflammation of the tendon, and tendon rupture is a break in the tendons. Tendinitis and tendon rupture have been reported in patients taking Levaquin who have no other risk factors. Patients experiencing symptoms such as sudden pains or swelling near joints, especially ankle or elbow joints, should consult their doctors for further medical advice.
Neurological Effects
Some patients may experience neurological side effects while taking Levaquin. According to RxList.com, Levaquin may cause stimulation of the central nervous system and lead to symptoms like tremors, restlessness, anxiety, lightheadedness, confusion and hallucinations. Some patients may experience numbness and tingling to their hands and feet. Drugs.com adds that in rare cases, seizures may occur. Patients may experience neurological side effects after the first dose of Levaquin. In many instances, the presence of neurological symptoms is grounds for discontinuation of Levaquin therapy.
Hepatic Effects
RxList.com reports that Levaquin may have toxic effects on the liver including inflammation of the liver and liver failure. Signs of liver impairment may include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark colored urine, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever and right-side abdominal pain. Liver effects are more common in patients over the age of 65 or patients with prior liver impairment. Patients taking Levaquin should undergo routine blood draws to have their liver function level checked.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Some gastrointestinal side effects may be unrelated to liver impairment. RxList.com explains that Levaquin may cause gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and indigestion. Patients may also develop diarrhea whil taking Levaquin. In some cases, diarrhea may become severe. Patients experiencing prolonged periods of watery diarrhea and patients experiencing bloody diarrhea should notify their doctors immediately as these symptoms may indicate serious medical conditions.
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