Levaquin (levofloxacin) is a prescription fluoroquinolone medication indicated for the treatment of bacterial infections of the lungs, urinary tract, prostate, kidneys or skin. This medication can be administered orally (liquid or tablet) or as an intravenous (IV) injection. If you are over the age of 60, discuss what the Levaquin side effects are in older people with your doctor before you begin treatment.
Tendonitis
Treatment with Levaquin can increase the risk of tendon damage or ruptures---especially in patients over the age of 60, warn health officials at the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within the Levaquin prescribing label. Your tendons are the tough, fibrous tissues that connect your muscles to your bones. While taking Levaquin, you can develop tendonitis, a condition caused by swelling of your tendons. If this occurs, you can experience pain, swelling or tenderness within affected regions, such as your back, shoulder, ankle or hand. Such side effects can occur even after treatment with Levaquin has ended. If you develop tendonitis as a side effect of this medication, contact your doctor immediately for further evaluation and care.
Liver Damage
Older patients---typically those over the age of 60---can be more susceptible to sustaining liver damage (hepatotoxicity) as a side effect of this medication. Your liver works in conjunction with your kidneys to help filter excess waste products, such as metabolized drug products, from the body. Side effects of liver damage can include fever, abdominal pain, increased fatigue, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, yellowing of the skin or eyes and abnormally colored urine or stools. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms of liver damage while receiving treatment with Levaquin.
Changes in Heart Rate
Levaquin can cause heart-related side effects to develop in certain patients, particularly those age 60 or older. While receiving treatment with Levaquin, you may notice that your heart rate becomes abnormally fast or irregular. Certain patients may experience episodes of dizziness or fainting due to heart-related side effects caused by this medication. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop any of these side effects while taking Levaquin.
Common Side Effects
Older patients may also develop common side effects associated with Levaquin use. Such side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, constipation or diarrhea. You may also experience fatigue or weakness, or abdominal cramping, discomfort or bloating in conjunction with these side effects.
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