The Potent Antibiotic Levaquin Has Been Tied to Painful Tendon Ruptures, Other Injuries

Levaquin (generic levofloxacin) is a powerful, prescription antibiotic made by Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical that has been linked to an increased risk of tendon ruptures, tendonitis, and other serious injuries. As part of the group of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones, Levaquin is commonly used to treat bacterial infections of the sinuses, skin, lungs, ears, airways, bones, and joints.

Tendons can rupture quickly, within hours of taking Levaquin, or may take weeks to develop. In some cases, patients feel pain and notice swelling or bruising in the area of the tendon, but some patients report seeing no symptoms of problems before they are injured.

People who have been injured by Levaquin or another type of fluoroquinolone may have legal rights. They may be eligible to be financially compensated for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. To contact Mark & Associates, P.C. today for a free legal consultation and evaluation of your possible case, complete the case submission form on this page or call 1-866-50-RIGHTS (1-866-507-4448).

Common Injuries

People taking Levaquin have experienced painful tendon ruptures and tendonitis, particularly in the rotator cuff in the shoulder, the hand, and the Achilles’ tendon in the foot. Tendons are cords of tissue that join muscles and bones and are essential in movement. Some Levaquin injuries require extensive surgery to repair the tendon. Shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, and swelling of the neck and face are other common injuries associated with Levaquin.

FDA Warns Users

The Food and Drug Administration in July 2008 ordered that a prominent “Black Box” warning be placed on the packaging of Levaquin and other fluoroquinolone brands to warn users about the risk of tendon ruptures and tendonitis. Hundreds of patients had reported such injuries, prompting the agency to take action.