Levaquin is a potent anti-bacterial medication for which the generic name is levofloxacin. It is manufactured and marketed by Ortho McNeil; however the patent on the product has expired and several generic versions are in circulation. In the United States, approved usage of the drug includes sinusitis, exacerbated chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections and prostatitis.
Levaquin Side Effects
Levaquin has been associated with increased risk for tendonitis and ruptured tendons. The entire class of drugs (fluoroquinolones) into which Levaquin falls is not approved for use with children except under special circumstances, due to the potential for damage to the musculoskeletal system, as well as the danger for fatalities. However it wasn’t until July of 2008 the FDA finally mandated a boxed warning on the medication packaging for possible tendon damage. Torn tendons, especially in the Achilles heel and the shoulder have been too common among active people who have been treated for a severe infection with Levaquin.
According to an analysis of the drug by the Mayo Clinic confusion, hallucinations and psychosis are also side effects associated with Levaquin, although they are rare. Headaches, nausea, constipation, nervousness and trouble sleeping are less common side effects associated with the medication.
Levaquin Legal Action
There have been so many lawsuits against Ortho McNeil over tendon injuries that in New Jersey, the state court system has taken the unusual step of consolidating all Levaquin liability claims into one suit. The claims are all similar, being associated with damage to the musculoskeletal structure through some sort of tendon damage. In Minnesota, the federal court for that district has consolidated its Levaquin cases as well.
Chronic tendonitis can mean a substantial alteration of lifestyle for active people. Healing from a torn tendon, especially one that requires surgical repair can lead to lost work time and a lot of pain and aggravation. If you have been prescribed Levaquin at some point in your medical history and have suffered a tendon injury, you should speak with an attorney who is an expert in this field. Contact our offices and one of our pharmaceutical liability attorneys will be in touch. You will be provided a knowledgeable and in-depth analysis of your case, at no charge.
