Levaquin (levofloxacin) is made by the company Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals (OMJP), and is an antibiotic medication that is prescribed to treat certain bacterial infection. MedlinePlus reports that Levaquin is used to treat chronic bronchitis, and sinus, skin, prostate, urinary tract, and kidney infections. It is also used to prevent anthrax infection after possible exposure. Levaquin is a potent antibiotic, but is possibly associated with certain side effects.
Tendon Effects
MedlinePlus and Drugs.com reports that taking Levaquin increases the risk of developing tendinitis, which is inflammation of the tendons that connects bones and muscles together. Levaquin has even caused ruptures of the tendons. According to MedlinePlus, the risk of tendinitis or tendon rupture is highest in people over 60 years of age. People who undertake regular strenuous activity or suffer from rheumatoid arthritis should be especially careful, warns MedlinePlus
Allergy
Leviquin is a type of drug called a fluoroquinone. The medication guide produced by OMJP advises that people who have severe allergies to fluorquinones should not take Leviquin. Even if no allergy is known, an allergic reaction to Levaquin is still possible. Allergic symptoms include hives, trouble breathing or swallowing, rapid heartbeat and swelling of the tongue, lips and face.
Effects on the Central Nervous System
OMJP also advises against possible effects on the Central Nervous System (CNS). The side effects include seizures, hearing voices, tremors, anxiety, nervousness, suicidal thoughts, confusion, trouble sleeping, nightmares and dizziness. MedlinePlus also warns that paranoia is a potential side effect. This symptom manifests itself as a feeling that other people may being trying to hurt you, or not trusting people you have trusted in the past.
Effects on the Liver
Liver damage, also called hepatotoxicity, is also a side effect that may occur in response to taking Levaquin, warns OMJP. Signs that the liver is being damaged are nausea or vomiting, stomach pain, fever, abdominal pain, fatigue, dark colored urine, or skin or whites of the eyes turning yellow.
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