What Are Side Effects of Levaquin?

What Are Side Effects of Levaquin?
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Levaquin (levofloxacin) is an antibacterial prescription medication indicated for the treatment of infections caused by bacteria within the bladder, kidneys, prostate, sinuses or skin. This medication is available as a tablet, liquid or injection and should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Before you begin treatment with this medication, speak with your doctor to discuss side effects.

Stomach Upset

While getting treatment with Levaquin, you can develop mild to severe stomach-related side effects. Symptoms of stomach upset can include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. Abdominal bloating, cramping or pain can also develop in patients who experience diarrhea or constipation. Heartburn, which causes abnormal sensations of burning or pain within the chest, may also occur. If you develop blood within your stools or if stomach-related side effects persist, contact your doctor immediately.

Headache or Dizziness

Treatment with Levaquin can cause you to develop headache or dizziness. Symptoms associated with these side effects are typically mild and resolve with recurrent treatment.

Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Women who take Levaquin may experience abnormal vaginal discharge. Levaquin is an antibacterial medication and may alter the levels of normal, healthy bacteria within the vagina. If this occurs, women who take Levaquin can develop bacterial vaginal infections, such as a vaginal yeast infection. Symptoms associated with a yeast infection include vaginal itching, irritation and inflammation. Additional medication may be required to resolve vaginal yeast infection symptoms.

Tendinitis

People who take Levaquin, especially those older than 60, are at increased risk of developing tendinitis as a side effect, warns the Levaquin product site. Tendinitis is a medical term used to describe inflammation and swelling of the tendons, the fibrous tissue that connects muscle tissue to bone. Tendinitis can cause pain, inflammation or bruising of the affected region and may cause you to move or walk abnormally. Speak with your doctor if these side effects develop.

Skin Rash

While taking Levaquin, you can develop a skin rash across your body or at the site at which the medication is injected. A rash of the skin can become red, irritated, inflamed or itchy. If skin-related side effects persist or become more severe (such as blisters or peeling), contact your doctor immediately for further evaluation.

References

Article reviewed by Anton Alden Last updated on: Mar 23, 2010

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