Post Marketing Reports June 2003

Sat, 21 Jun 2003 10:19:32 -0400 by cmr, #2812

I've been off levaquin for one week and I'm still getting side affects like muscle tightness and itching (no rash). Two nights ago woke up with terrible intestinal cramps and diarrhea. Does anyone know how long this stuff stays in your system?

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Fri, 20 Jun 2003 09:34:44 -0400 by Guest, #2806

My father who is 77 was prescribed Levaquin for pneumonia. He had been in the hospital for 4 days and was prescribed 500mg for 5 days upon his release. On the morning he was released, he took the first pill and was extremely confused all day, anxious, and felt he was not getting enough oxygen (he was on O2 tank). He was unable to sit still all day and was confused. About 10:30pm he finally sat still, and about 5 minutes after he "settled down", he had a seizure. We called 911, and he returned to the hospital. We were told the seizure was caused by the Levaquin.

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Thu, 19 Jun 2003 13:02:57 -0400 by Guest, #2800

OMG! I started taking Levaquin 500mg yesterday for a severe kidney infection. I think I was giving a shot of it at the doctor's office and then sent home with samples for 7 days. All day after recieving the shot and taking one tablet I had intolerable sweats. If I just got up to do the least little thing I would pour the sweat. Not to mention everytime I would lay down to take a nap I would wake up with soaking wet clothes. I still feel very nauseated even after taking a topical Phenagran (?Spell?) I feel very very dizzy and light headed and my heart seems to do a little quiver every few minutes. Mind you, I am only 21. After reading all of these horrific stories I too will call the doctor immediately and get off of this medication!!!

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Thu, 19 Jun 2003 07:45:17 -0400 by tiffany21, #2797

I STARTED TAKING LEVAQUIN FOR A BLADDER INFECTION, A FEW DAYS LATER I LAYED IN THE TANNING BED AND DEVELOPED A HORRIBLE-ITCHY RASH. I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO BECAUSE I DON'T FEEL LIKE GOING BACK TO THE DOCTOR BUT I DON'T WANT THE RASH TO GET WORSE.

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Wed, 18 Jun 2003 16:56:22 -0400 by Guest, #2786

I started taking Levaquin (250mg) on 6/15 by an Urgent Care Dr. for a UTI. I felt light-headed and dizzy the first couple of days. By last night (day 3) I felt horrible! I was dizzy, metallic taste, felt disconnected to my body, and inability to concentrate. I went on the website and found this site. This was a HUGE learning lesson for me!!! I will never take another drug without researching it first!!! I called my OB/Gyn this AM and he said this is a VERY strong antibiotic. I think we owe it to ourselves to not be so trusting and to do some research for ourselves!

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Wed, 18 Jun 2003 13:22:06 -0400 by melissa, #2784

I took one dose of 500 mg of Levaquin for one day. I noticed a couple of hours after I took it that I felt really funny; dizzy and kind of nauseated. I was not sure about the side effects as the doctor gave me samples so I really had nothing to read about the possible side effects. I went online to see what the possible side effects were and I came upon this site. I am totally in disbelief. I can guarantee that I will not take another dose after reading this site. I do not wish to have the side effects that many of you have experienced. The lightheadedness that I feel is enough for me. I have called my doctor today and told them that I would not be taking any more of this medication. Good luck to everyone who is put on this medication because you will need it. I wonder if there are any positive stories from anyone taking this medication.

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Wed, 18 Jun 2003 09:34:35 -0400 by Guest, #2783

Starting taking Levaquin 06.14.03. I have a sever rash on both arms and legs. Was not told it was sensitive to sun. I also have a metallic taste in my mouth. I started getting the rash immediately after taking my first dose on 06.14.03. The metallic taste yesterday 06.17. I also can't sleep and have no appetite. My dr. prescribed it for a UTI. I will call them as soon as they open. I, too will start looking up side effects before I take any medicine. Benadryl does help but I can't take it at work because it makes me sleepy. Thanks, Robyn

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Wed, 18 Jun 2003 01:45:43 -0400 by Guest, #2781

I was prescribed Levaquin 500mg for 30 days for acute recurring sinitus. Yesterday was day ten of the drug, and I finally came online and check it out....I have severe joint pain mainly in my knees, but also in feet, hands, and to a lesser extent the rest of my body. Last night I was unable to get more than 2-3 hours of sleep because of the pain and inability to get comfortable and in a position that was not painful. I also have diarrhea, metallic taste, and generally feel very run down (feel much worse than when I started taking the drug!). After calling the doctor they called in a new Rx for me, when I went to the pharmacy to pick it up, the pharmacist told me that he cannot believe how many doctors are prescribing levaquin....that it is supposed to be for life threatening infections, and that the side effects are so bad!!!! He said that there are too many other better antibiotics out there....ones with far less side effects that will do the job for doctors to be prescribing this one.

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Tue, 17 Jun 2003 03:46:18 -0400 by Guest, #2767

I have been taking levaquin for one week now for a atypical pneumonia. Since I started taking this drug I have had terrible night sweats, anybody else had this side effect?

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Mon, 16 Jun 2003 22:04:23 -0400 by steve21, #2764

I was prescribed Levaquin the first of April 2003 as a preventative measure, and around the 20th of May 2003 lost my ability to taste, just a weired metallic taste, and noitced I tired very easily and was short of breath with very little exerction. Was advised by a Dr. friend of mine to have some blood test done which showed that my immune system was very depressed. Abnormal platelets, very low RBC (2.95), very low WBC (1.22). Just about every entry on my CBC is low, with exception of two items which were high and these have remained unchanged for the past two weeks. I have had four CBC's done in the past 14 days with virtually no change. I am going for a bone marrow biopsy as soon as I can get in. (no insurance) Does anyone have any suggestions?

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Mon, 16 Jun 2003 21:38:04 -0400 by steve21, #2763

I was prescribed Levaquin the first of April 2003 as a preventative measure, and around the 20th of May 2003 lost my ability to taste, just a weired metallic taste, and noitced I tired very easily and was short of breath with very little exerction. Was advised by a Dr. friend of mine to have some blood test done which showed that my immune system was very depressed. Abnormal platelets, very low RBC (2.95), very low WBC (1.22). Just about every entry on my CBC is low, with exception of two items which were high and these have remained unchanged for the past two weeks. I have had four CBC's done in the past 14 days with virtually no change. I am going for a bone marrow biopsy as soon as I can get in. (no insurance) Does anyone have any suggestions?

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Mon, 16 Jun 2003 20:08:35 -0400 by maya10, #2762

22--Female, after 2nd dose of Levaquin-500mg for treatment for an ear infection, started having major anxiety attacks. Rapid heart beat, shaking, shortness of breath, thought I was seriously going crazy. Didn't know what was happening to me. Not informed of the side effects. Should have checked out myself, but have been on so many meds that I didn't think too much about it. MISTAKE. Scared me a lot. After checking out the side effects of levaquin on the internet, stopped taking it immediately. Have felt fine since. Took about 32 hours to start to feel back to my normal self. Will always check for side effects from now on and will never take levaquin again.


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Mon, 16 Jun 2003 07:19:46 -0400 by Guest, #2752

All of these side effects. Dont tke this med.

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Sun, 15 Jun 2003 15:48:11 -0400 by Guest, #2750

Had a bladder infection, was given Levaquin to treat it.
After 2nd dose was taken to the ER because of a heart attack,
after a series of test it was deternined by the doctors that it was caused by the Levaquin.

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Sun, 15 Jun 2003 15:19:40 -0400 by Guest, #2749

I was given 500MG of levaquin for a kidney infection. I was told to take it for ten days. After the second day I have joint pains in my knees, shoulders, ankles and rists so bad I can barely get out of bed in the morning. I also have had headaches which I rarely get. I actully think the so called medicine has taken my kidney infection away because I feel better but the joint pain has replaised the kidney infection. I think the FDA shouldn't of put this medication on the market.

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Sun, 15 Jun 2003 04:54:33 -0400 by Guest, #2746

Went on June 6 for a medical test and was given an IV dose of Levaquin as a precaution. I did not know I was being given this antibiotic. Within a few minutes I was in anaphylaxis. Also had very high blood pressure and heart rate. Muscle spasms throughout my body including my diaphram. I had two major "attacks" and one minor. I was given losts of drugs to counteract the symptoms. Had my procedure done and went home. Did not sleep that night and heart problems started up again. Ended up in the ER and in hospital for four days. Sleeplessness continues to be a problem 9 days later. No sleep again tonight. Lots of aching joints and muscles. Can't do much yet and can not concentrate enough to read a book. I had no problems like these prior to being given this ONE dose of Levaquin. I previously fell asleep as soon as my head touched the pillow.
I looked up this drug on the Web when I got home and found this site. I am very angry to have been given this drug without my knowledge and approval.

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Sat, 14 Jun 2003 22:17:40 -0400 by cmr, #2742

I have fibromyalgia and was given a 3 day dose of levaquin for a urinary tract infection. I took the last dose yesterday and today I feel so weak and tired I could hardly function. Also had problems with sleeping. Wanted to sleep but couldn't. Don't usually have a problem with antibiotics but will not take this one again. Didn't seem to help the UTI that much either. I can't imagine being on this for a long period of time.

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Fri, 13 Jun 2003 13:16:36 -0400 by callie, #2729

I was given Levaquin for a sinus infection in Nov. '02. On day 3 my left knee began to ache. I didn't get concerned because I had been going to the gym and working out on new equipment. On the 5th day at 2:30 AM, I woke up in extreme pain all over. All of my joints, from fingers to toes, had locked up and were screaming in pain. My husband had to carry me to the car and take me to the emergency room. They gave me 2 cortizone shots over the next 4 hours and finally I could move well enough to walk, with help.

Prednisone helps, but about 3 weeks after I stop taking a series of Prednisone, it all comes back like the first time. I am being tested for every conceivable autoimmune disease, because the 2nd rheumatologist my family doctor sent me to, is convinced that the Levaquin triggered a severe autoimmune problem. (The 1st one just shook her head in frustration and gave up)

It's been 7 months and the problems are still as agravating as when they began. I won't give up hope that there is a way to get well. Thank God I have insurance.

I've had my pharmacist put a flag on my account that will keep me from accidentally getting any drug related to Levaquin. There are several closely related drugs with different names-same ingredients.

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Fri, 13 Jun 2003 06:15:14 -0400 by Guest, #2724

I went into the hospital to treat a staph infection after orthoscopy surgery of the right knee. That was 4/30/03. The doctor treated me with vencomiacin for 10 days then switched me to levaquin. Three 4 weeks later I have joint problems in BOTH my knees- excruciating pain- over the last 2 weeks. I left the hospital with a cain and now I am using a walker ! I hurt so much sometimes I just want to cry - I keep thinking maybe I need a wheel chair. 3 days ago I discovered olive leaf extract & rosemary from my chiropractor. It has taken a lot of the sharpness of the pain away. My physician has not been sympathetic - says I just have arthritis. I'm 50 years old and had no problems with my left knee at all before this medication. Thanks everyone for your posting of symptoms, now I'm sure this is one more of the side effects. I'm going the herb/homepathic route now...

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Thu, 12 Jun 2003 19:51:10 -0400 by Guest, #2720

white, male, age 17
Have been taking Levaquin for 8 days. On day 6 started to get a red, itchy rash on hands, fingers, and wrist. Day 6 was also first day that I was outside. Pharmicist suspects a sensitivity to the sun. Advised me to stop taking the medication and contact my doctor.

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Thu, 12 Jun 2003 18:47:53 -0400 by Guest, #2719

White Male 40, Treated for UTI with Levaquin on May 31, 2003, took for 7 days, 14-day script. Stopped after 7.

- Horrible hives, all over, back, shoulders, legs, arms, never had them in my life ever before. Has lasted so far 6 days after stopping Levaquin. Two tabs of Benadryl seems to stop them within 30-45 min. Drinking lots of water seems to help too, but maybe just psychological. Sun especially kicks off the hives.
- Swelling in hands, feet. Was just in the last days of Levaquin use. Has not come back.
- I am very rarely allergic to anything, some Spring pollen, and only very mildly. Levaquin made my body go ballistic with hives when they hit. Itchy as I've ever been. Red skin, big blotches. (I have slightly olive skin, not the sensitive nordic fair skin you would expect to get hives) Really scared my wife. Benadryl has been a decent antidote. Just wondering how long the junk (Levaquin) stays in your system.

On day 7 post-Levaquin. Will never touch it again. Anyone notify the FDA? Perhaps this should be done.


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Thu, 12 Jun 2003 15:37:24 -0400 by Guest, #2717

I'm currently taking Levaquin 500mg for a sinus/ear infection and have two more days left. I actually went to the doctor in the first place because I've been dizzy and nauseated since mother's day.. Not so bad that I couldn't function and not continuously but enough so that I was concerned. My symptoms mostly hit me at night. All of my blood work came back ok. so he treated me for acute Sinusitus. Today is my 8th day I'm still feeling the same degree of dizziness and nausea - just urpy..no actual vomiting. I'm still eating fine.. I've gain 15 lbs in two months (I needed to) but for the last two or three days my muscles ache I feel beat up.. especially the bottoms of my feet and my leg muscles when I first get up in the morning.. or after I've been sitting for an extended period of time. My family laughs at me when I get up and walk saying I act like I'm 150 years old and I tell you I feel that way. It reminds me of every year when I go to NY and walk and walk and walk.. how sore I am. But again.. this pain is not severe enough to prevent me from functioning daily. I just feel Urpy and icky! and I'm tired of feeling urpy and icky.

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Thu, 12 Jun 2003 02:58:23 -0400 by carol, #2702

HAD A HYSTRECTOMY LAST THURS.,AFTER BEING ADVISED THAT IT WAS NORMAL TO RUN LOW GRADE FEVER,WASN'T TO CONCERNED TO START WITH,BUT EACH EVENING THE FEVER GOT A LITTLE HIGHER, THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE KIDNEY OR URINARY TRACT INFECT. WENT TO THE DOCTOR TODAY ,SAID TEST SHOWED NEITHER.BUT BLOOD WORK SHOWED RISE IN WHITE BLOOD COUNT, SUSPECTED BACTERIAL INFECT. WAS THE CONCLUSION. THEY GAVE ME ASHOT OF SOME SORT OF ANTIBIOTIC AND PRESCRIPTION FOR LEVAQUIN. TOOK MY FIRST PILL AFTER SUPPER(7:00PM) POSSIBLY MY LAST. ABOUT 12:OOAM I FELT WIRED ,JITTERY AND ALMOST CRAZY . EVERYONE IN MY FAMILY WAS SLEEPING BUT ME, I WOKE MY HUSBAND AS I WAS PASING THE FLOORS .THATS WHEN I THOUGHT ABOUT LOOKING ON TH E-NET TO SEE IF I COULD FIND SOME HELP AND STUMBLED ON TO THIS PAGE. BY NOW I HAVE BROKEN INTO A STILL NERVOUS SWEAT AND HEAVY BREATHING (NOW 3:00AM) THANKS TO THIS , I KNOW I DONT NEED TO TAKE ANY MORE!

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Wed, 11 Jun 2003 14:18:08 -0400 by Guest, #2694

To Moorekappal # 2680
HI!
I am so sorry to hear that your wife died after she took Levaquin, this is the first time I get a message about a person who died on Levaquin, I am using Levaquin for 7 days because my doctor insist me to use it for sore throat and
Sinusitis, I am very worry about because I know its side effects is so serious. I don't know if finally your doctor will give you a conclusion about what is real reason which cause your wife died? if yes, don't you mind to put on this mesage board?

Emanuel

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Wed, 11 Jun 2003 13:38:17 -0400 by jackiemac, #2693

I was on a ten day treatment of levaquin. The eighth day, I woke up with my left knee swollen. I quit taking the drug. This was in January/2003. I am still having stiffness. and pain in my knee


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Wed, 11 Jun 2003 11:00:13 -0400 by ebwells, #2691

I was prescribed Levaquin 750 q day for what appeared to be a breast abscess and swollen nodes in my left axilla. By day 3 I didn't feel a whole lot better, the infection didn't seem to be improving greatly, day 4-6 spanned a weekend, by day 7 I was so miserable I checked into the ER. There they did blood work that showed that my bone marrow was completely suppressed, which meant that my body was unable to fight the infection at all. The result was a two week stay in hospital, IV antibiotics x 4 weeks, incision and drainage of stated area x 2, and a lengthy recuperation. I am an RN, have never been sick a day in my life before this episode. I am still unable to return to work because of my low white blood cell count, and will very likely have to change jobs because I doubt whether I will be able to return to 12-hour shifts on an ortho-vascular floor. I am still quite weak, tire easily, need to rest frequently, do not have anywhere the ability to work a full day that I had before this episode. The affected areas are finally healing, but it is now 6 weeks post appearance of the infection. My WBC is still about half of what is should be to be low-normal. I am being followed by a oncologist-hematologist to correct the damage that was done to my bone marrow by this dangerous medication.

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Wed, 11 Jun 2003 05:10:19 -0400 by Guest, #2682

I was given Levaquin, 500mg a day by my doctor for a skin infection about six weeks ago. I immediately began to feel tired, achy in my joints and lower back, and just plan bad. I could not even sit at the computer for any length of time without being exhausted. I experienced severe shortness of breath and my blood pressure shot through the roof. I could not sleep at night and I had a hard time concentrating on the slightess task. After finding this website, I took myself off Levaquin and requested another antiobiotic. I have been off the Levaquin now for two weeks and I feel wonderful. I still have the shortness of breath but it is getting better. The lower back pain is subsiding. I am hopeful that I will back to my old self in no time. For anyone who is still taking this stuff, you may want to consider taking yourself off as I did.

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Wed, 11 Jun 2003 01:44:02 -0400 by moorekappa1, #2680

ON APRIL 14, 2003 MY WIFE WENT TO A DOCTORAND HE GAVE HER SOME LEVAQUIN FOR AN EAR INFECTION. SHE TOOK THE MEDICINE FOR SEVEN DAYS AND STOPPED. SHE BEGAN TO SLEEP ALOT BUT STILL GOT UP EVERYDAY AND WENT TO WORK (SHE'S AN RN). SHE ALSO ON THE SEVENTH DAY HAD JAONAS OR THE COLOR ORANGE OF THE EYES. SHE WENT TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM ON THE 24TH AND TO A LIVER SPECIALIST ON THE NEXT DAY 25TH AND NEEDED A TRANSPLANT LIVER ON THE NIGHT OF THE 25TH AND DIED ON THE 27TH AT 5AM. LEAVING HER HUSBAN AND TWO CHILDREN 7 AND 8 YEARS OLD WE WISHED THE DOCTOR WOULD HAVE EXAMINED HER BEFORE GIVEN HER 500MG OF LEVAQUIN.


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Tue, 10 Jun 2003 15:44:20 -0400 by Guest, #2677

I was prescribed 500mg of Levaquin for 10 days for a UTI and after the 3 dose I could hardly walk. I have terrible joint and muscular pain in my knees, toes and fingers, extreme weakness. My blood preasure has gone up and I have lost weight and taste. All these symptoms persist after a month. I am under 40.

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Tue, 10 Jun 2003 15:38:02 -0400 by Guest, #2676

In reply to Sharon #2662 June 9th, I had acute bronchitis and was prescribed levaquin. I took it for 10 days, and felt much better. Two days later, the infection was back. My doctor prescribed another 10 day course of levaquin. On day 2, I became itchy from head to toe, and began breaking out with tiny bumps that had liquid in them. The itching was intense- it felt like it was coming from the inside out. My doc put me on hydroxyl. It is now six weeks later, and I am still itchy in spots, many different areas at a time, and sometimes just one area. The worst is on my feet, ankles,legs and arms. My legs look like I have some funky disease, it is really upsetting. I researched levaquin side effects, and learned that these side effects can last up to three months on average, and sometimes longer. Please try not to scratch them too much. When you scratch off a scab, it just gets itchier. I find calahist ointment relieving, although it burns at first. You can also get a scrip for cortisone cream which will have a higher concentration of the meds than the over the counter stuff. Best of luck to you.

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Tue, 10 Jun 2003 09:55:05 -0400 by Guest, #2668

I was prescribed 10 tablets of Levaquin (250 mg) for a kidney infection. After four days, I noticed aches in my joints I had not experienced for, especially my knees upon getting up in the morning. Also, when I got up from sitting my joints were very achy and I walked like an old person. This feeling progressed over the next three days. I finally called my doctor for advice. Since I was feeling better for the prescribed ailment, she took me off of it. I hope my joints will be feeling better with each passing day. This stuff is dangerous.

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Tue, 10 Jun 2003 02:55:54 -0400 by Guest, #2663

Nasty metallic taste, loss of appetite----but need to lose some weight anyhow----Knees feel like 2 hot coals----Although I do have arthritis in my knees, they are much worse post Levaquin. Awake until 4am. Very emotional.
Have had 4 doses-500mg- & will not take more. Hands much more painful & stiff than usual. Was placed on this junk because of a chronic skin condition which no longer responded
to Tetracycline. Most of these symptoms started after first 2 doses, but are worsening. I have not been drinking enough water & this may be adding to the problem. But I am quitting.
Almost unable to do stairs although, to a lesser extent, have had some trouble with that before taking this drug. Good luck, all. If I had a really life threatening condition, it might be worthwhile, but not for this skin problem.


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Mon, 9 Jun 2003 21:47:35 -0400 by sharon, #2662

I have been taking levaquin for a urinary track infection for a week now. Past few days my legs and arms and few on my back have shown a small red spot that is like a blister when I touch them. they start out real tiny and then get a little bigger. They also itch a little. I plan on calling my Dr. tomorrow, but was wondering if anyone out there has had this same thing happen.

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Sat, 7 Jun 2003 08:17:23 -0400 by marie, #2639

I have always like Levaquin until last night. I had bronchitis 10 days before my last attack of bronchitis and Pleurisy. Both times my Pulmonary Specialist has given me Levaquin. I accidentially forgot to take the 10th dose. ( skipped a day) and took it yesterday 6-6-03. I became so weak. I had trouble getting my breath, was very weak ==walking a few steps felt as if the oxygen was cut off to my legs and arms. I turned very pale and experienced tingling in my fingers and toes.
My husband took me to a walk=in clinic - they sent us to the ER. The doctor there wanted to give me Anxiety pills. I refused. I explained I was not suffering from stress. I had a normal day. He ran all the test. Results - no clot, no pneumonia. He checked my blood for possible heart attack. All enzymes were normal. Potassium in normal range - but low side of normal. He told me to go home and drink some gatorade. The doctor said - there might be a side effect of Levaquin - "I haven't looked it up" He wrote me up as anxiety and unknown cause." I fully believe what I had last night was an Levaquin reaction. Today 6-7-03 I still feel tingling in my fingers and toes - I am still pale - but I am not as weak.


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Sat, 7 Jun 2003 08:16:29 -0400 by marie, #2638

I have always like Levaquin until last night. I had bronchitis 10 days before my last attack of bronchitis and Pleurisy. Both times my Pulmonary Specialist has given me Levaquin. I accidentially forgot to take the 10th dose. ( skipped a day) and took it yesterday 6-6-03. I became so weak. I had trouble getting my breath, was very weak ==walking a few steps felt as if the oxygen was cut off to my legs and arms. I turned very pale and experienced tingling in my fingers and toes.
My husband took me to a walk=in clinic - they sent us to the ER. The doctor there wanted to give me Anxiety pills. I refused. I explained I was not suffering from stress. I had a normal day. He ran all the test. Results - no clot, no pneumonia. He checked my blood for possible heart attack. All enzymes were normal. Potassium in normal range - but low side of normal. He told me to go home and drink some gatorade. The doctor said - there might be a side effect of Levaquin - "I haven't looked it up" He wrote me up as anxiety and unknown cause." I fully believe what I had last night was an Levaquin reaction. Today 6-7-03 I still feel tingling in my fingers and toes - I am still pale - but I am not as weak.



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Fri, 6 Jun 2003 20:42:04 -0400 by Guest, #2627

I do not know why Levaquin is still on the market! 500mgs daily for a UTI practically destroyed my stomach, and made me so ill, that I had to stop the drug. Judging by the experience of many who have posted neagative side effects, it seems to me that the FDA was asleep at the switch when they approved this drug, and apparently, have no intention of reviewing the continued use for Levaquin.

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Thu, 5 Jun 2003 19:31:21 -0400 by Guest, #2607

Oops....eighty years old

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Thu, 5 Jun 2003 19:21:56 -0400 by mje, #2606

As I read these side-effect, I believe that Levaquin was partially, if not wholely, responsible for my mother's death. She was eight years old and had been in the hospital for a bronchial infection. She was given Levaquin IV and sent home with Levaquin tablets. She then had the side effects of bad taste, diarrhea, low blood pressure, weight loss, and pseudomembranous colitis, pancreatitus, and loss of liver and kidney function. This all occured over a three week period and after being in intensive care for five days and then released to an oncology floor for "terminal" care, she died on April 16. Unfortunately, she and her husband had not been adequately warned of possible side-effects. She had celebrated her 80th in January and was still living in her own home prior to her hospital stays. Has anyone else had a similar experience. I dont want this to happen to other folks. Thanks.

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Thu, 5 Jun 2003 10:02:22 -0400 by Guest, #2603

I'am a 64 year old healthy male. I went to a local urologist (first visit with this Doctor) for a prostrate screening. After a urine sample testing he advised that I had prostatitis and prescribed a 30 day supply (1 a day) of Levaquin 500mg tablet. I just took my second tablet today. I researched Levaquin on the internet and found this site. I've thus far had no side affects but also only took my second pill 2 hours ago. After reading the postings on this site Im reluctant to take the remaining 28 day supply of Levaquin. I did have a violent reaction to a flue shot I received on 10-12-2002 but now recovered from that. The urologist was told that but still prescribed Levaquin. My reaction from the 10-12-2002 flue shot were basically many of the same symptons posted here from Levaquin.

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Wed, 4 Jun 2003 23:30:52 -0400 by Guest, #2601

I was prescribed 500mg once daily for 7 days for a UTI. At first I thought it was really good because I always react terribly with the weirdest of any possible side effect. In spite of digestive problems, I experienced none with Levaquin and that was simply amazing.

On the third day, I had a hint of bad taste. Nothing to concern me. On the fourth day, I took a niece to the movie and she leaned on mein a way that caused me to lean to my right , straining the left upper leg. The fifth day, the back of that left thigh was so stiff it was difficult to get out of bed, but I attributed it to the way I sat (though it seemed a bit much for that). The pain did not subside all day. I woke this morning and was so incredibly stiff that it was horribly painful to get out of bed. The pain had spread to an area about three times as large as what was hurting yesterday. It became so stiff while at work that I was barely able to walk. Getting out of my chair was excrutiating. It finally dawned on me to check side effects, and this is how I discovered that my notion that the Levaquin was the culprit was on target. By the time I left work, the pain has spread further and tonight it is even more intense, but my doctor has said not to take the remaining dose. I don't know yet whether the Levaquin did or didn't work for it's purpose because it also allowed for a secondary infection that is giving me some of the same problems. Now I am treating taking Macrobid again (which my digestive tract will not like) as well as treating the secondary infection. At this point, I don't know whether the pain in the left upper leg (all of it now, not just the back of the thigh) will get better on it's own or not. I'm keeping fingers crossed.

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Wed, 4 Jun 2003 15:48:22 -0400 by Guest, #2591

I was prescribed Levaquin for a uniary tract infection for 10 days 250 mg. The first few days, I was tired, weak, sleepy and had a sore back. The fourth night, I woke up about 1am feeling cold, left arm was asleep, chest was tight and my heartbeat was irregular so I went to the ER. After many tests, I was told that the Levaquin should not cause any of these symptoms so now I am taking a stress test next week. After getting off the meds, I feel so much better, not tired, no irregular heart beat....not going to take it again. Hope there are some success stories out there.

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Wed, 4 Jun 2003 15:16:06 -0400 by Guest, #2590

After being diagnosed as possibly having pneumonia, Levaquin was prescribed for a 10-day period. I took the medication for 5 days until I noticed severe aching & jolts of pain through my left leg & hip. I have NEVER had problems like this before taking this medication and have since been placed into physical therapy for bursitis in my left hip. I'm still having trouble walking great distances, quickly or sitting for longer than 30 minutes. Needless to say, I did not finish the Levaquin prescription.


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Wed, 4 Jun 2003 11:40:52 -0400 by Guest, #2586

I am a 69 year old woman with diabetes, and Charcot foot. I went swimming in FL., and scraped my toe next to my small toe and it continued to bleed after several weeks. Went to my Foot Dr., and he prescribed Keflex and Silvadene, a cream for my toe. It did not help, and I was then perscribed Levaquin 500 mg for 10 days, and a Accuzyme ointment. I have taken 7 pills, and like many of you, I thought my problems were from something else, but now realize they are not. Have pain in the calf of my left leg, similar to pain I had 30 yrs. ago from a blood clot. My vagina felt inflamed and sore and actually hurt. Burning sensation. Last night I elevated my leg and used moist heat. I am not going to take the last 3 doses of this medication, even tho my toe is still not healed. Enjoyed reading all other reports of side effects of this medication. It is quite expensive, and the Dr. only told me that it could cause some stiffness in the joints, and since I already have some arthritis which is being treated with Prednisone and Celebrex, this was not good news. Hang in there guys, and we can't all be losing our minds. I also had some diarrhea, and felt cold at times and drowsey.

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Wed, 4 Jun 2003 10:56:44 -0400 by jds2567, #2583

I have been taking Levaquin, 500mg since 5/30 for a UTI. It has slowly been eating away at my infection. However, my skin is now hypersensitive and even the softest cotton tee shirts are extremely irritating. I have no rash or hives, but it feels like I do. I did look at the Levaquin site on the following Monday and it warns of this side effect. In addition, the site advises to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. I have also experineced weakness and though it has not made me drowsey, the medication has rendered me unusually slow-witted.

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Tue, 3 Jun 2003 16:14:46 -0400 by Guest, #2560

hives, chest pain, back pain and very weak. I took levaquin for bronquitis and asthma.

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Tue, 3 Jun 2003 11:27:46 -0400 by Guest, #2559

Hi, Well, I've only been on Levaquin for three days now. My doctor prescibed a full 10-day supply. Seems to be fighting my upper respiratory infection, but I am so sore and weak. My muscles feel like jelly. Also out in the sun for a few hours over the weekend. That was a big NO-NO! Only experienced funny taste in my mouth for the first two days, but definitely not hungry. I wish my doctor or pharmacist would have discussed the possible side effects with me first.

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Mon, 2 Jun 2003 22:22:12 -0400 by Guest, #2554

was prescribed levaquin for treating prostatitis after the urologist wasn't satisfied with the results from cipro...experiencing loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, constant fatigue, and pains /stiffness in my neck and lower back...when I finally do get ant sleep, it seems more like a hallucination than dreaming...anyone else getting weird sleep patterns??

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Mon, 2 Jun 2003 15:15:01 -0400 by Guest, #2551

I have long term diabetes w/ poor circulation and was prescribed Levaquin for an infection in the legs. After taking for 2 days I went into tachycardia (fast heartbeat, faint, weak) for almost 7 hours. All the usual tricks for stopping tachycardia would not work until the levaquin had weakened or diluted in my system. I have had this happen within three to six hours after taking now for a total of 6 episodes. Joints hurt but infection seems to be clearing. Legs get positively purple after sitting up more than two hours. Regain normal color after laying down for 1 hour or more...

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Mon, 2 Jun 2003 15:10:41 -0400 by Guest, #2550

I have been taking Lefaquin for 10 days. I was not told of increased sensitivity to the sun. I went to the lake (North Mississippi) at 4 p.m. one afternoon and was outdoors for only 30 minutes with my dog. I had what appeared to be severe sun poisoning on my arms, face, and tops of my ears. I was outside today for less than 30 minutes and the blisters on my arms, ears, nose and neck have already appeared. Be extremely careful in the sun if you are taking this medicine!

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Mon, 2 Jun 2003 01:45:33 -0400 by Guest, #2543

I was perscribed 500 mg. Levaquin after Amoxoxillin didn't end an ear infection. I only took one pill. Within a couple hours I had diarhea that stopped after two hours only to return the next morning after eating breakfast. The diarhea persisted throughout the day while I only drank clear pops and water. I had terrible cramping as well. I called my clinic and was told these are normal side effects and to take some Immodium for diarhea and Tums to calm my stomach. Then 24 hours after taking one dose of Levaquin, I began vomiting violently. After several hours of this, I began to have bloody stool and my husband called the on-call doctor. He perscribed Phenergan for nausea and vomiting and lots of liquid. I dosed on an off all night interupted by trips to the bathroom. The vomiting finally stopped the next evening and the diarhea the next morning.
I was not warned of the side effects or given alternative treatments. This was three days of living hell!!!
AJ

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Sun, 1 Jun 2003 19:36:03 -0400 by Guest, #2542

Diagnosed with bronchitis. After being on Zithromax for a couple of days, my doctor switched me to this on Friday. By Saturday morning, I was extremely dizzy and light headed. Other problems include: nausea, exhaustion, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, headache, and some kind of deadening of my taste buds...I can't taste anything. Needless to say, I haven't taken another one of these pills. I can't afford to be flat on my back for another day and a half.
Going back to the doctor for another solution.


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Sun, 1 Jun 2003 10:16:51 -0400 by subtchr, #2533

Had prostrate infection. Urologist put me on Levaquin for 30 days. Told all my urinary problems would go away. I am 64 with some other non-related health problems and I take other RX's. By day 20 I was gretting pains in my lower right leg at night. Had difficulty in sleeping with that pain, it get severe by morning. Took sleeping pill (Ambien) and Loritab to sleep. Found I could decrease pain by putting two pillows under my legs at the kneee joint point. Was able to get sleep. When RX ran out I didn't refill right away. Even went to quick care and they gave me a muscle relaxer. That did nothing.Pain took 4-5 days to stop. Called Doc (ending up talking to office staff) and told them the results were not as advertised. They said to refill and take for another 10 days and they made me an appointment. Did not mention (my fault) my leg problems as I wasn't sure the RX was the problem. Started taking drug again three days ago. This muscle pain in leg started again. Previously I tried heating pad and a strong vibrator without success. This morning I decided to search WEB and found this great place. Will not take any more of the drug. Will ask Doc what else is avbailable. I hear taking Antibiotics for too long can make you immune to them. Of course I am forgetting the pain of getting another exam from the Doc...you guys know...it feels like his finger is a telephone pole.
Sub teacher in Las Vegas