Post Marketing Reports February 2003

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Fri, 28 Feb 2003 10:31:26 -0500 by Guest, #1310

Is blood in one's urine a possible side effect of Levaquin?

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Thu, 27 Feb 2003 21:05:22 -0500 by Guest, #1305

My side effects that I think are attributable to Levofloxacin: Exacerbated rib cage pain (I have been coughing some, but not enough for this much pain); general weak feeling, and weird feeling (not terrible, but not good); pounding head whenever I mover faster than a sloth; and bizarre dreams or thoughts at night (again, not terrible, but new to me).... I have taken this drug for four days, on a perscription for a bad sinus infection. I have had other antibiotics before - this one is definitely causing some problems.

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Wed, 26 Feb 2003 23:02:33 -0500 by Guest, #1300

First I want to say that I very much liked and appriciated the responce to the "Dr." from david t fuller
director ; fluoroquinolone toxicity
research foundation. Mon, 10 Feb 2003-
As you read this you may wonder what this has to do with you or the drug Levaquin.Read on and you will see. Simply put "Antibotics are poisons that are meant to kill. Only licensed physicans can prescribe antibiotics; we mere mortals cannot. Antibiotics are used to kill bacteria. Certainly,many have benifited from thier use; but if bacteria was the only organisms that antibiotics killed, this site would be unnecessary .We take antibiotics when we are sick, when our "immune systems are down".Yet all mycotoxins are immunosuppressants. I contend that any poison that kills small organisms in small doses can also kill big organisms in big doses.You and I are big organisms.
An adult has approximately three to four pounds of benifical bacteria and yeast in the intestines. Each competes for nutrition from the host-you.The competion from the benifical bacteria keeps the ever present yeast into check and allows them to produce necessary nutrients,including B vitamins. When antibiotics upset the delicate balance of the interestinal terrain, yeast grow unchecked into large colonies and the intestines are inhibited by hostile mircrobes, a condition called "dysbiosis".
Every time, not just sometimes, antibiotics are swallwed, they kill benifical bacteria within the intestines.Yeast are opportunistic organisms. As the intestinal bacteria terrian terrain erodes, yeasts thrive, especially when thier dietary cravings are met."with grains",sugar is also a grain. Tendrils on the yeast, called hyphae literally poke holes through the lining of the intestines, a syndrome called leaky gut. It is known that (NSAIDS) Like Naprycin and Tylenol can enhance the gut leakage.
As early as 1950, two female researchers in Albany,NY,understood the adverse Physiological events caused by antibiotics.For years they worked on a soil-based organism that prevented dysbiosis caused by antibiotics. They called thier discovery "Nystatin" after New York State. This antifungal drug kills organisms, hence the term antibiotic is applied to it as well. But this revolutionary antibiotic stopped yeast overgrowth caused by all other antibiotics and was 100 percent safe to use . Amazingly, Nystatin caused no side effects. though it can cause a "die off " responce which is often confused to side effects.
In 1957, 340 antibiotics were tested for thier toxicity. As described in The Handbook of Toxicity, editor Dr.William S. Spector used mice and rats to determine antibiotic toxicity.He stated,"by using a larger number of animals of comparitive weight and sex for each level tested,attempts are now bieng made to determine more percisely the dose which will kill 50 percent".This is referred to as"LD50", or lethal dose for 50 percent of the mice.One must wonder how perscriptive doses of these very same antibiotics were established in humans before 1957! We beg the question that if a given dose of penicillan will kill 50 percent of the mice tested,isn't it logical to assume that a larger dose,perhaps repetitive doses extended over forty years, might prove fatal to human? It is the time span between taking antibiotics and death that intersest me.Do people really die of heart disease and diabeties, or do antibiotics cause these diseases? A death certificate will state the probable cause of death and never question whether the deceased had a history of taking antibiotics! the fact that antibiotics are fungal metabolites and have been implicated by scientic literature as contributing to death in man should be considered. Why does it seem to be so difficult to assume antibiotics are directly or indirectly linked with death when immunodeficiency and and death are so intimately linked?Max Planck , Nobel Prize winning Physicist , probably answered these questions best when he surmised as to why science is slow to change even in the presence of so much factual date, such as indicated here on this site.Planck said,"A new scientific truth does not triumph by convincing its opponents and making them see the light, but rather because its opponents eventually die off and a new generation grows up that is familiar with the ideas from the beginning."
That a new generation will grow up knowing the dangers inherant in taking antibiotics is a good thing. That Dr.s will continue randomly prescribing fungal toxins should teach us the importance ofknowing medical facts before blindly accepting any new prescription.Please study the antimircrobial benifits and the immune system stimulants that nature provides.If you have reached the point where no alternitive exist,i recomend that you ask your Dr. to prescribe "Nystatin" and use it with your antibiotic.Also restoring the intestinal terrain with a Probiotic.
The reason for such a lenthy statement ,is that I care that there are people suffering because of this toxin that is gladly given to us. I recieved Levaquin pre-op, before a surgery,I was prescribed Bactrim DS for two weeks prior to surgery for an ruptured occulted epidermal cyst, I could not take the drug for nausea I took two tablets.No more. At time of surgery they tried to administer Leviquin.I had had it in my IV for about three - to five minutes and started to have an allergic reaction to it.Itching redness to the arm ,hand and wrist. I am thinking they stopped it.The nurse told the Dr. she stopped it. Thay supposedly ordered a differant antibiotic. And prescribed Biaxin XL. I never took any of the antibiotics at home.Just what was given to me in surgery.I came home from out patient surgery same day.For three days my arm where the IV administered the Leviquin was sore in joints that I could hardly move and it has been two weeks and it is still the same, but more, my rib cage and neck was so sore that I felt like I had been in a wrestling match. The surgery was in the perineal area. No reason for anything above to be painful. I immediately started using my alternitive medicines,Probiotics and Olive Leaf Extract , an antifungal. With fairly good results. You see, I didn't need those antibiotics after all. I try to eat a healthy diet,no grains. I do indulge on occaision. My diet is much like the Adkins diet. The key to life is a good diet.Go figure!Be Blessed And Well.
Sharon C.


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Wed, 26 Feb 2003 12:52:30 -0500 by wolmeister, #1294

after taking 500mg a day for just 5 days i stopped levaquin at the advice of a few people on this message board. THANK GOD!....i'm in pain in my back legs arms and shoulders and i'm pretty scared .....the doctor said it will go away quickly...what do you all think?

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Wed, 26 Feb 2003 12:13:06 -0500 by Robin, #1292

I took Levaquin for bronchitis and an acute upper respiratory infection and have had body aches, headaches (I never get), exhaustion, dizziness and my balance being way off, neck, back and rib pain that comes and goes all together. I went to the doctor and only got to see a PA (Physicans assistant) who said it must be a virus. I later read the side effects of Levaquin. I can't believe an antibiotic could have such side effects and be on the market. But that is our good old FDA - run by the pharmceutical companies lining the board member's pockets with stocks. How else could they keep women on HRT for decades despite the breast cancer research.

Anyway, I took Levaquin from Feb. 8th to Feb. 17th, 2003. Can a Naturopath offer any solutions?

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Wed, 26 Feb 2003 00:48:26 -0500 by Guest, #1288

If you are here, it means you have probably been damaged by taking Levaquin. Please read all the posts and follow the informational links. I posted the very first side effect here back in October 2002 and visit back every few days. This drug can be very dangerous. You need to arm yourself with information and make your doctor listen to what you find out. Abundant Blessings

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Tue, 25 Feb 2003 23:25:40 -0500 by Guest, #1286

i started taking levaquin for a urinary tract infection, i've only taken 2 (500mg) tablets but have a terrible headache and am shaky, my neck is stiff, i just feel "not right" should i stop taking it? does it get better? i have fibromyalgia so i'm accustomed to feeling not 100% but this feels just "weird"...any suggestions would be appreciated.

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Tue, 25 Feb 2003 15:45:37 -0500 by Guest, #1280

Bladder spasms started after taking it for three days. Came and went, but weren't connected to the Levaquin. Finally made the connection and stopped on day 10. It has been 8 days and the spasms continue and are unbearable. Detrol helps, but seems to bring on a horrible anxiety. Am praying that this damage is not permanent

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Mon, 24 Feb 2003 22:09:25 -0500 by Guest, #1271

I thank you all for your help. I have started just plain old aspirin for some pain relief. Ironically, we have Benadryl inhouse as I recommended it to husband who was having difficulty getting to and staying asleep.

I totally agree regarding docs not checking PDR as they should (I've had a few who always did) - after all they cannot be expected to remember everything.

Late afternoon nurse called me back and calmly took notes regarding checking PDR for Levaquin and use of nonflushing niacin as one defense against high cholesterol since statins do not seem to be my friend to give my doc when she returns.

While I will take a look at iknowthecause.com, I am really in no frame of mind to be *shocked*. The thought of a fungus involvement on top of what I am already experiencing could push me over the edge.

Again, thanks for your comments and help.

Jo

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Mon, 24 Feb 2003 20:46:56 -0500 by Guest, #1267

I would suggest that all of you eeking help on the subject of "Any" antibotics go to the link.
iknowthecause.com-The book "The Fungus Link Author-Doug Kaufmann.A great source of information.I recieved Levaquin pre-surgery and had an allergic reaction to it.Which delayed my surgery. The Doc again tried to prescribe it to me after surgery. I'm like "DUGH?" What do these Dr.'s do all day. I was prescribed Biaxin XL instead. Please do a fungal search on your conditions----YOU WILL BE SHOCKED.

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Mon, 24 Feb 2003 19:43:48 -0500 by Guest, #1266

This message is for Jo. You might try taking Benadryl at night. It can relax you as well as potentially help with your symptoms. The only medications I've found that helped me after Levaquin have been plain old aspirin and Benadryl, and their help has been limited and short-term. I took Levaquin October 4-10, 2002, and I still have weeks that I can barely walk for the pain and stiffness in my joints. Good luck and God bless,
Linda Hughes

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Mon, 24 Feb 2003 18:56:35 -0500 by Guest, #1264

"Levaquin was not the cause of my pain symptoms. "
I saw my doctor (a rare good doc) who after a full exam said Levaquin was not the cause of my pain symptoms.

I stongly suggest that your physician take another look at the PDR for levaquin. Such pain as you are describing is also an adverse drug reaction to this drug. I am not saying the levaquin is to blame but the odds are very good that it is. Very few, if any phsicians even have a clue as to the damage that fluoroquinolones can and will do to a subset of those prescribed and dismiss such concerns out of hand stating "it cannot be the drug" when in fact it is. Within this class of antibiotic more than 50% have been removed from clinical use due to toxicity issues. Spontaneous tendon rupture has been reported since 1982, and more recently pheripheal nueropathy as well.

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Mon, 24 Feb 2003 12:40:45 -0500 by Guest, #1257

To Guest replying to George 61

Thanks for this information. I will check out this link:
[ Click to see link: Link ]

Pain has now spread to forearms. I stopped Pravachol last night and have made an appt to see my doctor who is out of town til Wed.

It is entirely possible that I cannot take statins due to pre-existing chronic muscle pain *and* that Levaquin has played a role in my current distress. She did fully examine me checking for ligament tears finding none.

Odd 'coincidence' that I took Lipitor from 7/02 to 1/03 when new labwork showed slight increase in liver enzymes began and Levaquin was started 1/30th and pain started 2/3rd.

BTW I tried Vicodin which made me violently ill w/o pain relief. Hesitant now to try what she recommended for bedtime only (lying down reduces or eliminates side effects supposedly) - lowest dose of Percocet. I realize she's trying to get me some relief but my history with these type meds is poor.

Jo

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Sun, 23 Feb 2003 19:25:08 -0500 by Guest, #1251

To George 61 - you might want to check out the Pravachol adverse reactions at: [ Click to see link: Link ]
as it shows that Pravachol also has adverse reactions to people with liver problems or including liver problems. I'm a multiple organ recipient (heart/lung & kidney) and have been on Lipitor for 8 years and never had any of the reactions you said your "rare good doc" said you were experiencing. In fact the Lipitor site shows how rare side effects are. However, I have found that I can not take ANY of the Quinolone/Fluoroquinolones as I have had a diabetic reaction; muscle cramps; tendon stiffness & joint pain. After my diabetic reaction my doctor did research and found that the adverse reactions stated on this board are all true and has reported that to my other doctors. I have also put Quinolone/Fluoroquinolones on my allergy list.

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Sun, 23 Feb 2003 12:24:40 -0500 by George61, #1245

Follow up to my Mon, 17 Feb 2003 00:37:48 -0500 post

As "Guest" I stated in that post I'd update after seeing my doc so here it is: Feb. 18th I saw my doctor (a rare good doc) who after a full exam said Levaquin was not the cause of my pain symptoms.

Since July 2002 I've taken 10mgs Lipitor (rx'd by jerk doc), currently liver enzymes are elevated which she believes is the cause of this pain particularly since I have fibromyalgia, etc.

She stopped the Lipitor, rx'd Prevacol stating it was gentler on the liver. If I continue having problems with statins, cholesterol levels will be managed differently.

For this severe pain she asked to rx strong pain meds (opiod) which usually cause me horrible side effects. She listened to my reaction to a variety of these type meds and rx'd lowest dose 2.5/325 Percocet at bedtime only. Naturally my pharmacy nor 5 others had it in stock so it was ordered, due in on Monday, Feb 24th.

In the meantime my pharmacist called her office and got the doc on call who rx'd 5/500 Vicodin. I took it yesterday and I had all the usual side effects which lasted through this morning though milder and continuing to dissipate (dysphoric anxiety, violent shaking, headache, nausea) so Vicodin is added to the list of what I cannot tolerate. And it did not alleviate the muscle pain at all.

I'm wondering whether to bother picking up the Percocet she rx'd not knowing if this one at bedtime will have no or manageable side effects plus pain relief.

Much of this is for different message boards - I'll have to find opiod and statin ones - , however, I wanted those who read what I believed were side effects of Levaquin to know that my doctor decided otherwise.

Joanne Diffenbaugh aka George61

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Sun, 23 Feb 2003 09:32:23 -0500 by Guest, #1243

to wolmeister - check the posting four before yours and follow the link. DON'T TAKE ANY MORE until you read what's there, then decide.

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Sun, 23 Feb 2003 01:54:57 -0500 by wolmeister, #1240

i just started taking levquin for a urinary trac infection and my body is tingling like crazy...i hope thats all thats going to happen...i'm on 500mg a day for 21 days and i've only taken them for 3 days...any suggestions?

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Thu, 20 Feb 2003 13:57:47 -0500 by Guest, #1224

After the 3rd day of 500mg I began to develop intense abdominal spasms. They return each night. Feels as if I am going to explode. I've taken Levaquin before and do not recall noticeable side effects. Perhaps I didn't connect symptoms at those times to having taken an antibiotic. You assume the doctors know what they're doing.

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Thu, 20 Feb 2003 13:19:10 -0500 by Guest, #1223

A month ago I posted my wife's problems with Levaquin, namely, hot and cold flashes, sore joints and muscles and tingling sensations in body. Since then we have seen a doctor that knew about Levaquin reactions. He said that the problems generally last 2 to 3 weeks and suggested she take A.B. American Biologics "Ultra Infla-zyme Forte" tabs 1x3 times a day and Metagenics "Inflavonoid Intensive Care" tabs 2x3time a day. These are available over the counter in supplement stores. According to my wife they offer some, but not total, relief from the symptoms. After a month she is feeling somewhat better but has, I sorry to say, a long way before she's totally over the negative effects of this drug. Good luck to everyone posting on this site.



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Wed, 19 Feb 2003 10:41:46 -0500 by Guest, #1215

In Repy to Patti who Posted on Feb. 10
I also developed Thrush after taking Levaqin for 10 days.

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Wed, 19 Feb 2003 00:36:10 -0500 by Guest, #1210

Those who continue to suffer the adverse side effects of this drug may find the following to be of some help:

The following is the link to the quinolone adverse drug reaction discussion forum:

groups.yahoo.com/group/quinolones

The following is the link to the fluoroquinolone research forum:

groups.yahoo.com/group/fqresearch

The following is the link for the database forum maintained by the Fluoroquinolone Toxicity Research Foundation for reporting such events:

groups.yahoo.com/group/fq_adr_reports

The following is the link to the homepage of the fluoroquinolone toxicity research foundation where you will find over 4000 articles documenting the damage these drugs can and will do.

fqresearch.org

I do hope that you will find some answers to all of your questions by using these links. You are far from being alone for your name is "Legions". These sites are independent of medications.com and have no relationship what so ever with medications.com

David T Fuller
Director
Fluoroquinolone Toxicity Research Foundation



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Tue, 18 Feb 2003 16:17:44 -0500 by Guest, #1204

My brother was prescribed Levaquin in reference to broncitis. He is a very mild mannered individual but suffered a violent and psychotic episode within days. He cited no sleep and delusions. He has never acted in this manner. Can any one help me figure out what's happened to him? He is looking at being institutionalized over this and losing his job.

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Mon, 17 Feb 2003 00:37:48 -0500 by Guest, #1190

Hello,

For pneumonia I was rx'd erythromycin, became very sick so rx'd Levaquin. Pharmacy printout listed some side effects. I saw "torn ligaments" listed and was told it was a very rare side effect.

I started Levaquin January 30th. On February 3rd I developed pain in my right elbow area then even worse in my left shoulder, then in collarbone and surrounding area. Since then these symptoms have shown up in left elbow, right shoulder, calves of legs, hands, my right bicep is killing me, along with severe headache and overall weakness.

I am barely able to dress and undress or from this pain. Typing this with one finger right hand.

I have no transportation w/o spouse, finally called doctor on Friday, Feb. 14th and have appt Tuesday, Feb, 18th.

Her dx will be posted if possible.

I have fibromyalgia, chronic myofascial pain, chronic fatigue so I've certainly had no energy to injury myself. I am concerned this is a result of taking Levaquin.

Also since I have the above dx at first I thought it was just more pain, however, I am now positive that this is unrelated.

Joanne Diffenbaugh

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Sun, 16 Feb 2003 21:24:40 -0500 by Guest, #1187

Was given Levaquin for pneumonia. Experienced sleep problems and nightmares but was more concerned with fighting the pneumonia. On the sixth day I became very depressed and had long bouts of crying. Still not sure if this is weakness from Pneumonia or medication. Spoke with physician who didn't think t was the Levaquin. Don't know what to do.

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Tue, 11 Feb 2003 10:38:14 -0500 by Guest, #1139

I've been on Levaquin for 10 days for an ear infection. Today will be the 11th day. For the following reasons I'm not sure I should keep taking it. After about 4 days of taking it I started getting a sharp shooting pain going from my right ovary down my inner thigh to the knee. After a week of this it also goes to my lower right back and in my right side it's more like a muscle tightness than a pain.
Now my upper front thigh muscles and around my knees feel achey. Before I read these posts I thought my pain was due to a possible cysts on my ovary being this all started around 6 days before my period. I've never had any cysts or problems like that before or experienced this kind of pain on my period. I've also noticed that after I take the Levaquin the ovary pain gets a bit more intense. Can someone tell me is this the Levaquin or could I possibly have developed an ovarian cyst? Should I get off this medicine? I'm confused about weither it is really a cyst causing all this or the Levaquin. Thanks!

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Mon, 10 Feb 2003 23:07:54 -0500 by nettazig, #1138

To Guest MD: I cannot believe your audacity in stating that Levaquin could not be the cause of our problems, and I think you are a coward for not leaving your name. I was given Levaquin in June of last year, and within 3 days began to experience pain in my joints and muscles. By day 5 I was in so much pain, I literally could not get out of my bed. I also experienced severe headaches, insomnia, and tremors. In the following 3 months, I developed tendonitis with no preceding injury, elevated white blood counts with no infection, so many complications that they are too numerous to mention. Prior to taking Levaquin, I lead an active and fulfilling life. Now that life is nothing but a memory, and my doctor said IT WAS THE LEVAQUIN. The sheer volume of the research material documenting fluoroquinolone adverse reactions simply highlights your inadequacy as an MD. I sincerely hope that none of your patients have been harmed because of your ignorance and lack of compassion and understanding of adverse drug events. How you manage to maintain your license and patient base is beyond my comprehension! All I can say is I am truly grateful that you are not my physician!

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Mon, 10 Feb 2003 14:57:28 -0500 by Guest, #1134

My Right Foot Is Numb and cold ,The pain is terriffic.i had taken this drug before and was not prepared to be this disabled.

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Mon, 10 Feb 2003 10:06:19 -0500 by Guest, #1130

The ignorance of our guest M.D., doesn't surprise me at all. Maybe is an arogance acquired in medical school. We are just dumb patients, is that it??? We couldn't possible know anything. . . right??

While there may be the odd person who "coincidently" acquires a health problem, the vast majority here are more than likely correct about the association of the med with their adverse event. Just check the PDR.

Neither the ER, nor the M.D.'s I see thought what I had was a side effect of Levaquin. So, I printed an article out and took it to them, and asked that they share it with their colleagues. I don't expect the docs to "know everything", but when a bizarre symptom suddenly appears in a very healthy person, they should stop and think about it, and check their PDR.

I am a single mom, and it is devastating to have problems with my hands (peripheral neuropathy). This showed up after only 3 doses. I took a fourth dose and pretty much lost all use of my hands. (some in my feet too, and a slight area in my face). Still the M.D's didn't think it was the levaquin, and advised I continue taking it over the weekend. That's when I did my own research, and took it to them. Since stopping the med, my hands are somewhat better, but still not 100%. The fact the they got better after stopping, pretty clearly implicates levaquin.

My advice to everyone. Don't count on M.D's to know. It is tragic that so many people are getting switched to another antibiotic from the SAME family of meds after their initial adverse event! Stay away from quinolones if you can!!



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"Posted on: Sun, 9 Feb 2003 14:09:14 -0500, By: Guest
I took levaquin just last night and today i have a headache. I also
lost my job this morning, must be the Levaquin. As a matter of fact
maybe this whole Iraq thing is all levaquin's fault.
Maybe you people need to realise that just because you have a
symptom, and it happened after you took a drug, the two aren't
necessarily related. Take my word for it, I'm an M.D."

my response is as follows:

Thank you doctor for your enlightening post. The fact that you are a M.D. proves the total lack of knowledge you have regarding the damage this class of antibiotic can and will do. I invite you to review the more than 4000 medical journal entries that are located at the fqresearch homepage and perhaps you will reconsider your condensating remarks. The fact of the matter Doctor is that fluoroquinolones are one of the most TOXIC antibiotic on the market today with more than 50% removed from use due to toxicity issues. Perhaps you will take the time to educate yourself before making further statements that have no basis in fact. I believe that the victims of such adverse drug reactions are far more educated than the "MD"s that prescribe these drugs like halloween candy. CNS, PNS, tendon rupture, peripheal nueropathy,liver damage,kidney damage, corneal damage, insomnia, halluciations, and about four pages single spaced of other such events that are known and published adverse drug reactions to this class of drugs of which levaquin is the latest such poison to hit the market are readily available for your review. This certainly is nothing new. Starting with bailey et al in 1982 and most recently cohen et al 2001 you will find thousands of medical journal entries and case reports documenting the damage these drugs can and will do for the past twenty years. If you wish to participate in this discussion I strongly suggest you educate yourself first. Physicians routinely fail to RECOGNIZE, TREAT AND REPORT THE ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS ASOCIATED WITH FLUOROQUINOLONES. You are but another ignorant and arrogant physician who is a clear and present danger to those you treat. And yet you wonder why you face such outrageous increases in your medical liabity insurance. The failure to recognize an adverse event is gross medical malpractice doctor. You are to have intimate knowledge of the drugs you prescribe. Please take you condensating attitude elsewhere. You have no place on this forum. Your are not an asset but a liability. Please include your name next time you post so that we can then avoid seeking further care for one such as you for such ignorance and arrogance is indeed a deadly combination. These drugs have killed people doctor. These drugs have crippled people doctor. THese drugs have destroyed peoples lives doctor. For you to state that one who may be experiencing and adverse event is to be ridiculed, by a MD no less is outrageous. Perhaps you have forgotten that FIRST you are to do no harm. To dismiss someones concerns in such a callous manner, when you have zero knowledge of the adverse events associated with these drugs is pathetic. The title of MD does not bestow upon you the right to make a gludious maxiumus out of yourself in this manner. Believe me I know, a physician such as you has crippled me (as well as legions of others) for life and as such I find no humor or anything of value in your remarks.


director
fluoroquinolone toxicity research foundation
www.fqresearch.org



The following are the known, listed and published adverse drug events associated with fluoroquinolone therapy. Levaquin is a chemotherapuetic antibiotic belonging to this clas:

Adverse effects related to fluoroquinolones
Asthenia

Edema

Fever

Malaise

Rigors

Substernal Chest Pain

Syncope

Cardiovascular Disorders

Cardiac Failure

Circulatory Failure

Hypertension

Central and Peripheral Nervous System Disorders

Abnormal Coordination

Coma

Convulsions

Seizures

Hyperkinesia

Hypertonia

Hypoaesthesia

Involuntary Muscle Contractions

Paresthesia

Paralysis

Speech Disorders

Stupor

Tremor

Vertigo

Gastrointestinal System Disorders

Dry Mouth

Dysphagia

Gastroenteritis

G.I.Hemorrhage

Pancreatitis

Pseudomembranous Colitis

Tongue Edema

Hearing and Vestibular Disorders

Ear Disorders

Tinnitus

Heart Rate and Rhythm Disorders

Arrhythmia

Atrial Fibrillation

Bradycardia

Cardiac Arrest

Heart Block

Palpitation

Supraventricular Tachycardia

Tachycardia

Ventricular Fibrillation

Hematology

Decreased Lymphocytes

Liver and Biliary System Disorders

Abnormal Hepatic Function

Cholelithiasis

Hepatic Coma

Jaundice

Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders

Aggravated Diabetes

Mellitus

Decreased Glucose

Decreased Magnesium

Increased Calcium

Dehydration

Hyperglycemia

Hyperkalemia

Hypoglycemia

Hypokalemia

Increased LDH

Weight Loss

Musculo-Skeletal System Disorders

Arthralgia

Arthritis

Arthrosis

Muscle Weakness

Myalgia

Osteromyelitis

Rhabdomyolysis

Synovitis

Tendinitis

Myo, Endo, Pericardial and Valve Disorders

Angina

Pectoris

Coronary Thrombosis

Myocardial Infarction

Neoplasms

Carcinoma

Parosmia

Platelet, Bleeding and Clotting Disorders

Abnormal Platelets

Embolism

Epistaxis

Purpura

Thrombocytopenia

Psychiatric Disorders

Abnormal Dreaming

Aggressive Reaction

Agitation

Anorexia

Anxiety

Confusion

Delirium

Depression

Emotional Liability

Hallucination

Impaired Concentration

Impotence

Manic Reaction

Mental Deficiency

Nervousness

Paranoia

Sleep Disorders

Somnolence

Withdrawal Syndrome

Suicide

Red Blood Cell Disorders

Anemia

Reproductive Disorders

Ejaculation Failure

Resistance Mechanism Disorders

Fungal Infections

Genital Moniliasis

Respiratory System Disorders

ARDS

Asthma

Coughing

Dyspnea

Haemoptysis

Hypoxia

Pleural Effusion

Respiratory Insufficiency

Respiratory Failure

Skin and Appendages Disorders

Erythema Nodosum

Genital Pruritus

Increased Sweating

Skin Disorders

Skin Exfoliation

Skin Ulceration

Urticaria

Urinary System Disorders

Abnormal Renal Function

Acute Renal Failure

Face Edema

Crystalluria

Cylindruria

Hematuria

Vascular (Extracardiac) Disorders

Cerebrovascular Disorder

Phlebitis

Vision Disorders

Abnormal Vision

Conjunctivitis

Diplopia

Retina Damage

Cornea Damage

Ophthalmologic Abnormalities

Cataracts

Multiple Punctate Lenticular Opacities

White Cell and RES Disorders

Granulocytopenia

Leukocytosis

Leukopenia

Lymphadenopathy

WBC Abnormal Count

Allergic Pneumonitis

Anaphylactic Shock

Anaphylactoid Reaction

Dysphonia

Abnormal EEG

Encephalopathy

Eosinophilia

Erythema Multiforme

Hemolytic Anemia

Multi System Organ Failure (Death)

Increased International Normalized Ratio (INR) Prothrombin Time

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Tendon Rupture

Torsades de Pointes

Vasodilation

This is but a small sampling of various adverse reactions associated with such therapy.

This list goes on and on and on and on and on. The physician has no clue as to what these drugs can and will do to a patient. There is no known treatment for a majority of the severe reactions. Such reactions DO NOT abate once therapy is discontinued in a subset of those so treated and the current research indicates that such events are to be considered permanent in nature.


Director
Fluoroquinolone Toxicity Research Foundation

www.fqresearch.org



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Mon, 10 Feb 2003 00:52:33 -0500 by Guest, #1123

I am a 60 year old woman. I went to my doctor with a very bad cold and what I thought was the flu. He diagnosed me with serious sinusitis and bronchitis. He gave me antibiotic samples from his office: Levaquin and Augmentin. I was to take one Levaquin at noon each day along with the other which I've had in the past. I took one on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Now mind you I was having all kinds of weird feelings but I passed that off to the fact that I was dealing with a temperature of 103 degrees and up. On Friday morning I woke up without fever and still felt crazy as hell. I told my husband that this medicine is effecting me the same way a codeine pain med did a few years ago, and I recognized the symptoms! I was hallucinating, dreaming while awake, seeing people, hearing conversations, etc., when there were none. I also was quivering all through my insides constantly. I was light headed, slightly dizzy while trying to walk, and could not get any quality sleep. Could not concentrate propertly, etc. I called a pharmacist and was told that absolutely LEVAQUIN can cause all of those symptoms, to stop it now. I then called my doctor and his nurse agreed that I should stop the Levaquin, but told me to continue the Augmentin. Within a few hours I now have developed thrush (yeast infection in my mouth). So I have taken a Diflucan to help with that. My problem is now that I am pretty much over my illnesses, except for a runny nose and a lingering cough, BUT I am still dealing with mild brain (mental) altered condition, inner trembling (anxiety), etc. from the Levaquin. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE FOR 3 TABLETS OF THIS POISON TO BE OUT OF MY SYSTEM?? Thanks for anyone who can answer me or let me know of similar side effects they have experienced. Patti

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"Maybe you people need to realise that just because you have a symptom, and it happened after you took a drug, the two aren't necessarily related. Take my word for it, I'm an M.D."

my response is as follows:

Thank you doctor for your enlightening post. The fact that you are a M.D. proves the total lack of knowledge you have regarding the damage this class of antibiotic can and will do. I invite you to review the more than 4000 medical journal entries that are located at www.fqresearch.org and perhaps you will reconsider your condensating remarks. The fact of the matter Doctor is that fluoroquinolones are one of the most TOXIC antibiotic on the market today with more than 50% removed from use due to toxicity issues. Perhaps you will take the time to educate yourself before making further statements that have no basis in fact. I believe that the victims of such adverse drug reactions are far more educated than the "MD"s that prescribe these drugs like halloween candy. CNS, PNS, tendon rupture, peripheal nueropathy,liver damage,kidney damage, corneal damage, insomnia, halluciations, and about four pages single spaced of other such events that are known and published adverse drug reactions to this class of drugs of which levaquin is the latest such poison to hit the market are readily available for your review. This certainly is nothing new. Starting with bailey et al in 1982 and most recently cohen et al 2001 you will find thousands of medical journal entries and case reports documenting the damage these drugs can and will do for the past twenty years. If you wish to participate in this discussion I strongly suggest you educate yourself first. Physicians routinely fail to RECOGNIZE, TREAT AND REPORT THE ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS ASOCIATED WITH FLUOROQUINOLONES. You are but another ignorant and arrogant physician who is a clear and present danger to those you treat. And yet you wonder why you face such outrageous increases in your medical liabity insurance. The failure to recognize an adverse event is gross medical malpractice doctor. You are to have intimate knowledge of the drugs you prescribe. Please take you condensating attitude elsewhere. You have no place on this forum. Your are not an asset but a liability. Please include your name next time you post so that we can then avoid seeking further care for one such as you for such ignorance and arrogance is indeed a deadly combination. These drugs have killed people doctor. These drugs have crippled people doctor. THese drugs have destroyed peoples lives doctor. For you to state that one who may be experiencing and adverse event is to be ridiculed, by a MD no less is outrageous. Perhaps you have forgotten that FIRST you are to do no harm. To dismiss someones concerns in such a callous manner, when you have zero knowledge of the adverse events associated with these drugs is pathetic. The title of MD does not bestow upon you the right to make a gludious maxiumus out of yourself in this manner. Believe me I know, a physician such as you has crippled me (as well as legions of others) for life and as such I find no humor or anything of value in your remarks.


director
fluoroquinolone toxicity research foundation

www.fqresearch.org


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Sun, 9 Feb 2003 18:55:37 -0500 by Guest, #1120

How nice of you to drop by and straighten all of us out, you nice doctor. Now we can all go back to being healthy.
Oh, by the way, does the name Thalidomide ring any bells?

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Sun, 9 Feb 2003 17:26:44 -0500 by Guest, #1119

So, you're an M.D. and you know everything; is that it? Maybe you better do a little research on the ADRs of Levaquin and other fluoroquinolones. All these "bizarre" symptoms are listed in the PDR as possible ADRs of fluoroquinolone therapy(except yours, of course). How can you ask us to believe that it's purely coincidence that all these people developed these symptoms right after taking the drugs that are KNOWN to cause them? Most of them didn't even KNOW that these were possible adrs; they're just seeking answers.

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Sun, 9 Feb 2003 17:11:23 -0500 by Guest, #1118

"Maybe you people need to realize that just because you have a symptom, and it happened after you took a drug, the two aren't necessarily related. Take my word for it, I'm an M.D."

Take your word for it? I go to UCLA for my medical care. I must have seen about 4 different doctors there who are unable to diagnose what I have. I told them that after starting Trimox, 5 days later I had severe pins and needles in my lower right leg. They switched me to Levaquin and that made it worse. Then muscle twitching started. They too said that "it's NOT the Levaquin!" all right then, "what's causing the pins and needles and muscle twitches" I asked these doctors who's word I'm supposed to be taking. All their answers were "I don't know...". BRILLIANT. 4 doctors at UCLA say it's not the Levaquin, BUT cannot give me a viable explanation as to what's causing them. Ironically, within 4 days of stopping the Levaquin (because a pharmacist said that it was indeed a rare side effect from the drug) the pins and needles subsided. Hmmm, what could it have been?!? Maybe if the doctor gave an intelligent response when presenting them with our symptoms, they could say something other than "I don't know what could be causing that" and just passing the symptom by like it doesn't mean anything, we'd be more apt to 'take their word for it'. The words "I'm an M.D." are not synonymous with the words "I Am God". I will always question a doctor's word. It's my responsibility because it's MY health that they may be misdiagnosing. This arrogant attitude of Dr.'s is really getting tiresome. WE hire doctors to work for US. WE do not work for the doctors. WE pay THEM. They act like it's the other way around. Doctors have to stop dropping the ball and start investigating the symptoms instead of just shrugging them off with "Oh, that's just age". It's maddening!! ...-Dave




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Sun, 9 Feb 2003 16:10:55 -0500 by Guest, #1117

I have had the side effect of severe confusion and a diabetic episode which resulted in a hospitalization from Tequin. I started Levaquin a week ago, but had stiff muscles, tendon & joints, muscle weakness and ringing in the ears. I was prescribed Cipro Friday and am suffering aches, joint & back pain and joint stiffness. My throat is getting sore and stiff and possibly swelling. I am stopping the Cipro immediately and calling my doctor tomorrow. I have taken it successfully once in the past. I am a multiple organ transplant recipient, and know my body and how I feel. The so called "M.D." who so facetiously posted that "As a matter of fact maybe this whole Iraq thing is all levaquin's fault. Maybe you people need to realise that just because you have a symptom, and it happened after you took a drug, the two aren't necessarily related" needs to get a better bedside manner and do some research in the PDR.



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Sun, 9 Feb 2003 14:09:14 -0500 by Guest, #1115

I took levaquin just last night and today i have a headache. I also lost my job this morning, must be the Levaquin. As a matter of fact maybe this whole Iraq thing is all levaquin's fault.
Maybe you people need to realise that just because you have a symptom, and it happened after you took a drug, the two aren't necessarily related. Take my word for it, I'm an M.D.

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Sun, 9 Feb 2003 13:55:28 -0500 by Guest, #1114

heart tremors

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Sat, 8 Feb 2003 23:29:11 -0500 by Guest, #1112

I took Levaquin for aspiration pneumonia. The third day my joints hurt so badly I could barely walk. I still have unexplained pain. It's been three years.

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Sat, 8 Feb 2003 18:44:22 -0500 by Guest, #1108

My father has taken Levaquin in the past and had problems with a rash on his "private parts". Got sick again - Levaquin prescribed. In just a day, weakness, loss of appetite, general ill feeling, nausea, and soreness, he says everwhere. Now after taking Levaquin for 4 days, rash is back. Dr prescribed Cipro. Thank you for this web page.
I'll have him stop taking Cipro immediately. The sad thing is, he told the Dr he was allergic to Levaquin and the hospital gave to him anyway. Drs all said the Levaquin could not have caused the rash he experienced. Anyone else with similar rash?

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Sat, 8 Feb 2003 18:25:25 -0500 by Guest, #1107

I took Levaquin for 10 days for whooping cough. After day 7, I woke up with muscular aches all over, most in my extremeties, also shoulder pain. After reading all your stories, I'm very concerned as to when the pain will go away.

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Sat, 8 Feb 2003 08:57:45 -0500 by Guest, #1103

I took Tequin for a sinus infection. My heasr rate went up to 130 and I thought I was going to die. I stopped taking it. The infection is back so I paid $90.00 for 7 Levaqin tabs yesterday. My heart did not race with this drug, but I had extreme weakness and lots of diarrhea. I have not had any trouble sleeping. I will continue taking it as I have been sick all month with this sinus infection. I knew the risks as I am a nurse. This drug seems to be the "drug of choice" where I work.....

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Sat, 8 Feb 2003 08:34:12 -0500 by Guest, #1101

Does anyone attribute these awful symptoms of the infection or medical problem you have??? I almost died from a large, infected kidney stone. The infection moved into my bloodstream causing major organ function to shut down. All of the symptoms I have read above are symptoms I experienced prior to levaquin in my IV. The previous antibiotic was not strong enough to kill the bacteria in the infection. Levaquin saved my life! You should discuss your feelings with your doc and not post your "opinion" to influence others negatively. Yes, afterwards I felt dizzy, lightheaded and my temp dropped 2 degrees, but this will pass.

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Fri, 7 Feb 2003 15:42:45 -0500 by Guest, #1088

After just taking one dose of Levaquin (500 mg) for a recurring ear infection, I had a noticable allergic reation. My hands and feet were extremely itchy and red for a couple of hrs. After the second dose, I had the same problem, but as before it went away. The third day was the worse. I developed hives, swelling and my hands became fire red, and my face and chest broke out in red patches. I felt itchy all over my body and felt like my body was on fire. My dr. told me to stop taking Levaquin and to take Benadryl for the next couple of days.


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Fri, 7 Feb 2003 13:39:02 -0500 by Guest, #1087

Has anyone had neurological effects (i.e. heightened sensitivity to noises, smells, etc. or any other or all types of stimulus)?

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Thu, 6 Feb 2003 23:11:51 -0500 by Guest, #1082

Levaquin was prescribed for me 7 days ago. I previously had a reaction to Tequin which caused confusion and a diabetic episode, so was concerned and asked my pharmacist about this medication. She said if I noticed any of the same reactions, to stop levaquin immediately. It took only 2 days before I began to experience muscle cramps & tendon stiffness, which I had also experienced from Tequin. Do not take any Quinolones without discussing it with your physician and pharmacist!

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Thu, 6 Feb 2003 22:26:40 -0500 by Guest, #1081

after taking the second dose of levaquin i had such bad heart palpitations for about an hour i thought i was taking a heart attack. my breast bone and all around that area is still very sore. my legs are very weak and just feel sick all over

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Thu, 6 Feb 2003 13:21:53 -0500 by Guest, #1077

Correction to the last post. It should be January 22, 2003.

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Wed, 5 Feb 2003 14:59:24 -0500 by Guest, #1063

I was given Levaquin for 10 days for sinus infection on Feb 22, 2003. I couldn't sleep for those 10 days. Even now I still have trouble to sleep at night. I don't have touble sleeping before I take Levaquin. After 6 days of Levaquin feel a little pain on my back around kidney area. Since it was just little uncomfortable, I didn't pay much attention on it. And my sinus infection seems improved after 6 days. I finished 10 days Levaquin. I got severe back pain around kidney area after I finished 10 days Levaquin. I went to ER. They did blood test, X-ray, and ct-scan. Everything are normal except a tiny kidney stone. The ER doctor said the tiny kidney stone should not contribute to my severe back pain. But he cannot explain why I have such severe back pain. I don't have sinus infection now. I still feel mild back pain now. I feel tired and weak sometimes. It's good to find this website to explain why I had such severe back pain around kidney area.

Don't take Levaquin. There are other drugs we can take.

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Wed, 5 Feb 2003 13:16:04 -0500 by Guest, #1062

I was given Levaquin for 10days for reacurring sinus infections and ear infections, the same things happened to me my left shoulder started to cramp up real bad. cavles in both legs started to hurt, as well foot pain, and you can not get to sleep no matter what you take. So far I've been awake for 5 days. When I layed down can't close my eyes to sleep they just pop right back open, this goes on all night. The one time I did drift of to sleep, I woke with my heart pounding from a most horrible realistic dream. And another thing I did not know that if you have any type of vessle disease, it may cause a stroke, now why didn't my Doctor tell me this? probably because he did'nt know either.

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Wed, 5 Feb 2003 11:41:04 -0500 by Guest, #1061

I took Levaquin for urinary tract infection. After several days both Achilles tendons were so sore I could hardly walk. Also severe pain in both kidneys. That was about one year ago. Great quantities of cranberry juice cleared up the kidney pain. But there is still some pain in left Achilles tendon. An MRI indicated "moderate to severe damage". The doctor is not recommending surgery.

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Wed, 5 Feb 2003 11:24:55 -0500 by Guest, #1060

Finally, I have found a site that makes sense of how I am feeling. End of Oct, went to Dr for severe migraine-like headaches, no other cold or sinus symptoms. MRI normal except mild sinus inflammation left maxillary, so prescribed 10days Levaquin 500mg. After the 2nd-3rd day, developed trouble sleeping, legs and arms felt heavy, slight dizziness when walking, discomfort in breast bone and headache worsened with neck ache. Started Prednisone which then helped the stabbing headache. Day 8 my left maxillary sinus started hurting/swollen ,I was feeling sick,and neck really ached. On day ten, my cheek was beet red, hot and swollen, and I had a dentist appointment (my dr said levaquin wasnt effective for MVP, need to take Clindamycin--I took it more than twelve hours after last dose of Levaquin). That same day,the doctor stopped levagquin then prescribed biaxin XL to take later that night (had taken before for MVP dental treatments without problem). I was nervous about all the antibiotics even though they were spaced out more than 12hrs between plus the prednisone--asked the doctor repeatedly and two different pharmacists who all insisted all ok and absolutley necesary for the severe inflammation. The nightmare begins!!! That night I had severe gastric pain and nausea, I felt totally devoid of energy. I called dr-- said biaxin causes severe gastric pain to stop taking it. I couldnt get out of bed the entire day. That night, I developed racing heart--stomach pounding out of chest, severe nausea and headache with neck ache. Went to ER--dehydrated, Xray and blood work normal so sent home with pepcid for the gastritis. I still felt like I was dying! Heart palpatations/pounding out of my chest plus severe nausea and stomach pains,not able to eat, trouble sleeping, "flu-like" feeling constantly with lowgrade fever. That went on the entire week--worse part the sinus infection still needed to be treated so prescribed Avelox(had taken in past for sinus infections) for ten days. Exactly two weeks from 1st ER visit, awaken in middle of night with "stomach" pulsating out of chest HR130+, went back to ER still feeling sick, ache all over, high BP and pulse with mild fever. This time they did abdominal xray, ct-scan and US--all normal (except tons of kidney stones) and so was the blood work--sent home as the mystery gastrtis case told to have upper GI scope ASAP. Endoscope in mid Dec, found only mild/moderate inflammation of eosphagus, yet I couldnt eat anything other than yogurt and soup? I started to feel better Christmas day, and have been making progress back to feeling more human, but not myself. My normal coloring is almost back. I have a few good days which are always followed by few bad days. I have aches and pains everywhere in my body from my shins to my breast--but usually concentated in neck, shoulders, hips. I still have the nausea in am with hot flashes and dry mouth, but are getting less intense. I am 35, perfect health and exercised daily for 2hrs prior to Nov. I cant believe that antibiotics could have such toxic effects and long staying powers. I cant attribute the symptoms I am having strictly to levaquin---but since I still feel the way I did when I started the Levaquin (prior to the prednisone and other antibiotics) I believe that some of the residual sideeffects are from Levaquin. In case,you think I am an uneducated idiot for taking so many meds--I asked several Dr and pharmacist before taking each med, plus I have a Ph.D. in biology.

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Sun, 2 Feb 2003 21:39:45 -0500 by Guest, #1041

I was the first person to post an adverse reaction here for Levaquin and I asked to be informed when anyone else did. There are many posters now. I encourage anyone who visits here to also visit this website for information on what is happening to you as a result of this drug. You are not alone.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/quinolones/

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Sun, 2 Feb 2003 21:08:28 -0500 by Guest, #1040

I took Levaquin for UTI after the first 7 days my body was very sore, I thought is was from the UTI. The UTI went away but came back 4 days later. Again I took the Levaquin 2 days in my body hurt really bad but I kept taking the Leviquin by the end of 7 days of a 30 day supply I could hardly walk. I could not get up or down stairs without help, I had numb arms, I could not even open a bottle of water. There was to many other things wrong with my body to name. My doctor said chances are it was not the Laviquin. To any one who will listen to me STOP taking this medicine NOW!!!! I felt like I was dying. My life and enegy was literaly being sucked out of me. I took about 2 weeks for me to walk good enough to go to work and it is now about 6 months and I am still tired and and weak sometimes. I was 41 and a very strong and heathly man. I am not alergic to anything. This is not an alergic reaction this was leagally being poisoned by the drug company who makes this stuff.
Again I say STOP TAKING THIS DRUG !!!
YOUR LIFE AND HEATH DEPEND ON IT.
If we don't warn people who will?
There are other durgs we can take.


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Sun, 2 Feb 2003 18:41:22 -0500 by Guest, #1039

My body temperature decreased 2 degrees from normal. Same achings as all of you and increase in neuropathic symptoms. I already had neuropathy. Have a complicated UTI and only have to take it for 7 days. I know it's excellent so I'll hang in there until therapy is stopped. I won't take it again, though.

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Sun, 2 Feb 2003 18:32:37 -0500 by Guest, #1038

Polyelene glycol maybe that is what causeing the problem .there is no antidote for it It is one of the ingredent.Prayer and flush body with lots of spring water. Green tea two cups aday may help. I took one pill and still haveing back pains (Dec27)

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Sun, 2 Feb 2003 13:23:13 -0500 by Guest, #1035

I started taking Levaquin about 3 days ago for a sinus infection and haven't felt quite right since. My legs feel tingly; sometimes numbing. Extremely cold and yet sometimes feel as though I am running a fever!! Wonder if I should continue the remaining 7 pills? I think I will call doctor tomorrow to see what they have to say.

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Sat, 1 Feb 2003 21:19:49 -0500 by Guest, #1030

I took this medication and i passed out. When i awoke I discovered I coun't see and it was very difficult to breath my joints ached so bad i had trouble moving at all even a little .This drug was very scary this happened a couple of weeks ago since then ive been in bed with terrible rashes and welts all over my body and i havn't felt right since...BE CAREFULL

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Sat, 1 Feb 2003 17:14:48 -0500 by Guest, #1028

I had been sick for 3 month with bronchitus. It was a relief to quit coughing. Yes, I lost a little sleep, and yes I had a little joint pain. But I am so glad I am not coughing and wetting my pants. Gracious am I.

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Sat, 1 Feb 2003 04:54:23 -0500 by Guest, #1025

I started taking this drug about 2 weeks ago, It has cleared up my sinus infection VERY well, and I have felt little to no side efects other than a little bit of weakness, but even then not that much difference in strength. However, I am still taking it and yesterday afternoon went to a tanning salon. I figured there were side effects with UV rays as with most Rx's but I have never had a problem before. Today I woke up itching and scratching uncontrolably, and it has gotten worse through the day. Lotion won't help, so I just have to put up with this pain. So just a extra note on the side effects. DO NOT GO TANNING while on this drug. It's hurts the next day...