Levaquin (Levofloxacin) is an antibiotic classed as a broad-spectrum medicine that is effective against many organisms (See References 2). Conditions treated by Levaquin include maxillary sinusitis, pneumonia, uncomplicated skin infections, bacterial bronchitis, urinary tract infections and kidney infections, bacterial prostatitis and bacterial eye infections (conjunctivitis) (See References 2). The National Institute of Health (NIH) reports a new warning regarding the occurrence of tendinopathy and tendon rupture for some patients, particularly those over 60 years of age, and those taking immunosuppressants and steroids (See References 1).
General Adverse Reactions
As with all antibiotics, patients taking Levaquin may have hypersensitivity reactions (allergic reactions) to include rash, itching, angioedema (swelling) and anaphylaxis (See References 1). Any possible allergic reaction symptoms should be reported to a physician immediately. Patients taking Levaquin may have sensitivity to the sun and should limit sun exposure (See References 2).
People taking Levaquin have reported flu-type symptoms such as fever, chest and back pain and pharyngitis (See References 2). If Levaquin is given by injection, pain and inflammation at the injection site may be experienced (See References 2).
Levaquin may be contraindicated, or should be used with caution, in patients with a history of seizure disorders, renal impairment, cardiac problems, psychosis or a history of suicidal ideation (See References 2).
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Levaquin has been reported to cause serious ventricular arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) such as Torsades de Pointes (a type of ventricular tachycardia) (See References 1). Patients with a history of prolonged QT interval on an electrocardiogram, or taking medications that may prolong the QT interval, or who have low serum potassium levels, should not take Levaquin (See References 1).
Central Nervous System Side Effects
Levaquin may exacerbate suicidal ideation and psychotic behavior (See References 2). Confusion, anxiety, hallucinations and depression may occur after the first dose (See References 1). Patients taking Levaquin have reported headache, dizziness and difficulty sleeping (See References 2). Levaquin may also lower the seizure threshold; therefore, patients with a history of seizures should not take Levaquin, or if receiving the medications, must be closely monitored for convulsions (See References 1).
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Levaquin (Levofloxacin) may cause nausea, vomiting, indigestion and abdominal pain (See References 2). Diarrhea or constipation may occur (See References 2). The NIH reports the potential for hepatic toxicity (liver failure); symptoms of liver toxicity such as jaundice and abdominal pain should be reported to a physician (See References 1).
Clostridium difficile-associated colitis may occur during or following Levaquin treatment; report diarrhea to a physician as this condition can become serious, even fatal (See References 1).
Renal and Hematologic Side Effects
The NIH reports that serious renal toxicity can occur after several doses of Levaquin (See References 1). Patients receiving Levaquin should have baseline lab values done prior to and throughout treatment to assess renal function.
Severe anemia and decreased platelet counts may occur after several doses of Levaquin (See References 1). Baseline lab values to assess hemoglobin, hematocrit and platelet count should be done prior to beginning therapy, and should also be checked during treatment (See References 1).
References
- The National Institute of Health
- Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010; Wilson, B. A., Shannon, T. M., & Shields, K. M.; 2010.
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